THE ECONOMIC ESSENCE OF INNOVATION: A RETROSPECTIVE OF VIEWS

Abstract

Introduction. In the context of increasing competition, when characterizing commercial structures, a fundamental role is given to innovations, which occupy an important place in the economic life of the organization. Accordingly, the study of their essence and content acquires special importance, which determines the relevance of the study. This article examines the evolution of views on the definition of the nature of innovation. The views of representatives of various economic trends and schools (from mercantilism to modern doctrines) are considered. The purpose of this study is to conduct a comparative analysis of approaches to determining the essence of innovations and their role in anti-crisis strategies. In the course of the research, the following methods were used: theoretical generalization and comparison, analysis and synthesis, method of system analysis, institutional approach. Results and discussions. The article examines the evolution of views on the definition of the essence of innovation. The points of view of representatives of various economic trends and schools (from mercantilism to modern teachings) are considered. In conclusion, a typology of innovative concepts is carried out based on differences in views on the essence of innovation in certain periods of economic development. Conclusions on the causes and conditions of transformations of the economic essence of the innovation category are proposed. The results obtained can be used to develop the conceptual foundations of an innovative model for the development of the KCR.