Publications

A recent article found that all previous reports of the biopharmaceutical industry have grossly underestimated total research and development expenditures.

Compustat data has three major limitations, which makes citing studies that use these datasets as evidence of rising concentration (or declining competition) problematic. Policymakers should focus on studies that use the official and much more comprehensive data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Economic Census.

The U.S. Development Finance Corporation (DFC), which was created to serve counterweight to China’s Belt-and-Road initiative, rewards countries whose intellectual property and data policies harm American commercial interests and jobs. That needs to stop.

The dominant economic model of the post-war era has run its course. It’s time to embrace a new paradigm that focuses on enabling producers to succeed, especially in advanced, traded-sector industries.

As AI continues to advance, the technology has created many opportunities and risks. Despite significant geopolitical differences, a series of interviews with AI experts in China and the United Kingdom reveals common AI safety priorities, shared understanding of the benefits and risks of open source AI, and agreement on the merits of closer collaboration—but also obstacles to closer partnerships.

The comparison of the Census Bureau’s manufacturing data from 2002 to 2022 reveals a stark and depressing reality: in just two decades, the number of manufacturing firms fell, jobs diminished, payroll failed to keep pace with national growth, and productivity stalled.

Rob Atkinson appeared on The Government Huddle with Brian Chidester to address the widespread myths and misconceptions surrounding modern technologies and their impact on society.

In response to the Southport stabbing and ensuing UK riots, many have blamed social media for spreading misinformation that incited violence. However, this focus on social media ignores deeper societal issues and deflects from the government's own shortcomings.

Rob Atkinson appeared on the Silicon Valley Leadership Group’s podcast Silicon Valley Vibes to discuss his new book Technology Fears and Scapegoats.

Critics highlight AI’s disruptive potential, citing concerns like bioterrorism and language loss. However, data shows Americans are generally more optimistic about AI’s benefits, suggesting policymakers should use this positive outlook to support AI in promising areas.