national traits in technology

This week I came across an article in the NY-Times which is about stereotypes of countries concerning technology. It wasn't a very interesting article - at least not for me - I'm not so into technology, but because stereotypes is one of our topics this semester I thought it's worth mention it.

It was called "National Traits and the Nature of Innovation". The author claims that every country has its stereotypes when it comes to technology. Like, for instance, the French lead in technologies that require large government subsidies, so it was clear that the fastes train, with astonishing 575 kilometers per hour, was designed by the French. (It's not designed for transport though - well, what purpose does it have then? I guess the French only want to boast (-: )
The Chinese are only imitators but nevertheless make a very good living from making the products of others. So why change? Finland and Ireland, once agricultural countries, are now booming in the electronic and pharmaceutical sectors.

Well, not very captivating, hu? Next time it will be more interesting or funny, I promise.