Evolution of the concept of competitiveness: a chronological review of the main theories and approaches

Evolución del concepto de competitividad: una revisión cronológica de las principales teorías y enfoques

Autores/as

  • Arlethe Yarí Aguilar Villarreal San Nicolás de los Garza Nuevo León. Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas
  • Jesús Fabián López Pérez San Nicolás de los Garza Nuevo León. Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Contaduría Pública y Administración

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56712/latam.v6i4.4494

Palabras clave:

competitiveness, economic theories, literature review, economic development, innovation

Resumen

This article offers a chronological overview of the ideas that have shaped the concept of competitiveness, with the aim of showing its evolution and how it has changed and found new applications over time. Through an in-depth review of the literature from the mid-20th century to the present, it explores classical foundations—such as neoclassical economics and the theory of comparative advantage—as well as recent approaches focused on innovation, intangible assets, sustainability, and a more systemic view of competitiveness. Throughout the analysis, key moments are identified that marked a shift in how the concept is understood: from a perspective focused solely on prices and productivity to more comprehensive models that also consider social, technological, and institutional factors. The study highlights how the concept has become increasingly interdisciplinary and emphasizes the need to adapt theoretical frameworks to the current challenges faced by both organizations and regions. This review aims to serve as a useful guide for those researching or working on sustainable economic development who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the conceptual foundations of competitiveness.

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Biografía del autor/a

Arlethe Yarí Aguilar Villarreal, San Nicolás de los Garza Nuevo León. Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas

Jesús Fabián López Pérez, San Nicolás de los Garza Nuevo León. Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Contaduría Pública y Administración

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Publicado

2025-09-17

Cómo citar

Aguilar Villarreal, A. Y., & López Pérez, J. F. (2025). Evolution of the concept of competitiveness: a chronological review of the main theories and approaches: Evolución del concepto de competitividad: una revisión cronológica de las principales teorías y enfoques. LATAM Revista Latinoamericana De Ciencias Sociales Y Humanidades, 6(4). https://doi.org/10.56712/latam.v6i4.4494

Número

Sección

Ciencias de la Educación