Dokholyan S.V. Competition for knowledge and quality of life of the population: theoretical analysis. Problems of market economy. 2026. No. 2. P. 6-18.

Abstract

The relevance of the research is due to the fact that in modern conditions of digitalization, technological changes, demographic constraints and the increasing complexity of the labor market structure, knowledge, competencies and the ability to constantly update them are becoming the most important resource for socio-economic development. At the same time, uneven access to education, professional development, and opportunities to realize human capital increases differences in employment, income, social mobility, and, as a result, in the standard and quality of life of the population. The purpose of the article is to systematize scientific approaches to the analysis of competition for knowledge as a factor in the level and quality of life of the population, as well as to identify the main mechanisms of its impact on employment, income, quality of working life, social and territorial mobility. The methodological basis of the research is a theoretical analysis of scientific literature, comparative and systematic approaches, as well as a generalization of modern scientific ideas about the relationship between education, labor market, human capital and quality of life. As a result, it has been established that competition for knowledge is not a private, but a systemic socio-economic process that affects the quality of life through educational opportunities, quality of employment, the regional environment, institutional support and access to continuing education. It is shown that with institutional gaps, knowledge is not always converted into decent employment and a high level of well-being, and in some cases it reinforces existing social inequality. It is concluded that there is a need for a comprehensive government policy aimed at equalizing educational opportunities, developing human capital, improving the quality of working life, reducing regional disparities and strengthening lifelong learning institutions.