Across the world, cities and regions have wasted trillions of dollars blindly copying the Silicon Valley model of growth creation. We have lived with this system for decades, and the result is clear: a small number of regions and cities are at the top of the high-tech industry, but many more are fighting a losing battle to retain economic dynamism. But, as this books details, there are other models for innovation-based growth that don't rely on a flourishing high-tech industry. Breznitz argues that the purveyors of the dominant ideas on innovation have a feeble understanding of the big picture on global production and innovation.

The new globalization of innovation -- The Silicon peaches -- Startups are everywhere! (but the growth statistics) -- Making America great again? -- Four are better than one (but first, let us plan it strategically) -- Singing and designing -- incrementally : innovation-based growth -- Out with the old, in with the new! But in what ways? -- Looking for better options : the science of innovation policies and agencies in a globally fragmented world -- Our anti-intellectual property rights system -- The road to hell is paved with good intentions : the age of financialization -- Data : why mining us is the new boom and for whom -- Conclusion: In defense of experiments, mistakes, and the right to choose.