Inovação, Informação e Conhecimentos: a importância de distinguir o modo da moda Innovation, Information and Knowledge: the importance of distinguishing mode from fashion

This article examines the characteristics of the new knowledge and information intensive pattern of accumulation from the perspective of less developed countries. The main argument is that in order to confront the challenges and to take advantage of the opportunities, the implementation of specific policies is required. This task should start by understanding these processes beyond their face value. After discussing the need and difficulties of developing and using new analytical and normative frameworks, the concept of local productive and innovative arrangements is presented. The capacity of the concept in providing a better understanding and orientation of policies targeting the promotion of processes of generation, acquisition and diffusion of knowledge is then analysed.