Inovace ve světle dlouhých vln

Abstract

This contribution signalizes selected aspects connected with theoretic and practical view on innovations in globalized conditions of the beginning of the 21st century - in the light of long waves instruments. Development of capitalist industrial societies can be designed through four so called long waves (Kondratieff s long term cycles) of about 50 years ' length of duration, which create background for non standard explanation of wars, revolutions and other important events, and for preparing predictions of future development. Key for understanding their mechanism is often linked with basic innovations of the highest rank, which revolutionize the whole system of society and economy. Modem innovation theory comes from J. A. Schumpeter's heritage, who significantly elaborated (following N. D. Kondratieff) long waves theory as well. The contribution of the F. Valenta's classification of innovative ranks appears as very instructive, not only in the context of actual considerations on possible coming of long K-wave.