This argument has also conceptualised the type of technical development experienced In economies similar to those of Latin America, lnsplte of the fact that technical transfer Is a pheno­ menon Intrinsic to alI econo~les. Of course, Its Importance has varied according to the level and type of development. For the Latin American case, this has led to the assertion that the assimilation of technical knowledge Is above all Imitative and does not tend to Instigate new systems and products(3). Presented by Gull lermo Vltel II. The author Is grateful to A. Canltrot, J. Fidel. K. Hoffman, J. Katz and J. Lucangell for comments and discussions 1. For an exhaustive study of this theme, reference may be made for example to the works of UNCTAD (1970), Dlaz (1971), Valtsos (1973), INTI (1974), Sercovlch (1975) and Teece (1977). 2. The neo-classical framework Implies essentially zero cost for any movement along an lsoquant. There are no expenses In creating new technology, nor In research or adaptation, since technological change Is exogenous to the firm and apparently appears like manna from heaven. 6 These assertions only conslde~ major advances In scientific knowledge as generators of technical change. New directions In economic theory. however, are currently rejecting or broadening this focus by Incorporating a new type of .Innovation, :t.1a ~ ~~· which Is seen to play an active part In modifying the long-term technical proflle(4) •. Some authors betleve that the accumulation of minor Innovations over time can lead to relatively Important technological modlflcatlons(5). Any engineering modification, however slight, can be considered as a minor change and therefore an e"lement allowing domestic capability to be Identified. This wider theoretical approach leads naturally consluslon that the actual process of production can In be used acquire capabilities. to· the practice 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the concept of technical development and its relationship to economic development, particularly in the context of Latin America. It touches on the idea of assimilating technical knowledge and the role of innovation in modifying the technical profile of a country. The text also references various economic theories and studies, which suggests that it is primarily focused on economic development and its underlying mechanisms.

**Category**
Economic development, Science and technology