Final answer:
Sources of new technologies include suppliers, individual inventors, the government, and universities, each contributing unique strengths and capabilities to technological innovation. Challenges such as investment demands and managing positive externalities must be addressed in collaboration among these entities.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the sources of new technologies, several key players contribute to the development and dissemination of technological innovations. These include:
- Suppliers: Companies that provide components and materials, often invest in R&D to improve their offerings and gain competitive advantage.
- Individual inventors: Creative minds driving innovation with their original ideas and inventions, motivated by potential profit, recognition, and the benefit of society.
- The government: Providing funding for research, establishing regulations like patents to incentivize innovation, and running institutions that focus on technological advancement.
- Universities: Centers of research and development, often collaborating with industry and government to bring new technologies to fruition.
All these entities face challenges such as the need for investment and the management of positive externalities, which occur when a product or service's benefits extend beyond the immediate purchaser. Collaboration among these sources is vital to ensure the continuous flow of new technologies.