A meta-analysis of rates of return to agricultural R&D : ex pede Herculem?

摘要: IFPRI has long argued that spending on agricultural research constitutes a sound investment in poverty reduction and economic growth, through improvements productivity. This argument is based partly the reported evidence of high rates return to research, typically believed be range 40–60 percent per year. Yet there continues controversy over whether these figures are believed, what they actually indicate. study represents first attempt take comprehensive look at all available investments R&D since 1953, only do so formal statistical fashion. report compiled documented literature ways make it more accessible useful other researchers policymakers, as well others interested evidence. The analysis reveals some systematic patterns sources biases easier interpret draw meaningful conclusions. (Excerpted from Summary by Per Pinstrup-Andersen)