Theorizing upskill journeys in advanced capitalist democracies

Abstract This chapter develops the theoretical framework guiding the study, emphasizing the linkages between technological change, sectoral composition of national knowledge economies, businesses’ skill demand, and higher education systems. It introduces the concept of skill breadth—distinguishing between broad and narrow skill needs—and classifies higher education systems based on their mode of financing and organizational differentiation. Four ideal-typical logics of state intervention to link labour market demand and higher education supply are posited: allocation, modification, facilitation, and information. The chapter also addresses how organizational politics within the higher education sector shapes responses to external pressures. It closes by detailing the analytical strategy and mixed-methods research design.