Spatial concentration of workforce in economy sectors identifited by R&D expenditure in the European Union countries

Abstract

The research covering spatial concentration originates from many trends in economic theory, e.g. neoclassical theory, new theory of trade or new geographic economy. The analysis of spatial concentration can be conducted by taking into account the sector structure of economy. Currently, the importance of sectors based on implementing knowledge and innovation is continuously increasing. Therefore, the empirical studies on spatial concentration can cover economic structures in the cross-section of sectors, distinguished by the intensity of research and development activities, defined as the relation of expenditure on research and development against sector added value. The purpose of this study is to identify spatial concentration of workforce number in economy sectors identified by R&D intensity, as well as its assessment and the analysis of changes over time. Location quotients and Gini index were applied in the conducted research. The research covered the space of the European Union Member States in the period 2008-2013.