The Relevance of Science and Technology for the Arab Spring and the Key Role of the Knowledge Economy

Abstract

This chapter examines some of the economic, political, and social circumstances that created the turmoil and so-called "Arab Spring". It explores the connection between the different driving forces that led to the present moment. It examines more specifically the role of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in the buildup of discontent and its subsequent explosion and considers how STI and entrepreneurship might now take us forward.