What does this research mean for the field?

Generative AI functions as both a general-purpose technology (GPT) and an invention in the method of invention (IMI), positioning it to have a sustained positive impact on long-term economic productivity. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.SYNTHESIS. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

Investigate how the type of technology that generative AI represents influences its economic effects.

May 16, 2026

Generative AI: What Type of Technology?

Key Points

Investigate how the type of technology that generative AI represents influences its economic effects.
Analysis of generative AI in relation to historical innovations and technologies
Comparison of discrete innovations and general-purpose technologies
Evaluation of generative AI's role as an invention in the method of invention
Generative AI is classified as both a general-purpose technology and an invention method.
Expected sustained positive impact on productivity due to generative AI.
Performance compared to historical technological innovations indicates a long-term growth potential.

Abstract

The economic effects of generative AI (genAI) will depend on the type of technology it ultimately represents. The impact on productivity growth of discrete innovations, such as the light bulb, fades when the market saturates. General-purpose technologies (GPTs), such as the electric dynamo, affect growth over longer horizons through knock-on innovations that enable additional applications. Inventions in the method of invention (IMIs) fuel growth through new ideas that translate into productivity gains. Emerging evidence indicates that genAI is both a GPT and an IMI and, thus, can be expected to have a sustained positive impact on productivity.

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