This book is a serious study on why the commercialization of technological ideas has not been possible in Russia for centuries. From the time of Peter I to Skolkovo, being pioneers in many of the most important branches of science, Russians seriously lag behind as soon as it comes to getting benefits. The author, Lauren Graham, is a well-known researcher of Soviet science, professor at MIT, Harvard lecturer, winner of scientific awards and author of books on the history of science. He was a participant in one of the first programs for the exchange of scientists between the USA and the USSR (1960) and since then has held many official and unofficial conversations with Russian scientists, students, entrepreneurs. The book will be of interest to entrepreneurs, employees of innovative and IT companies, as well as everyone who cares about the history and future of our country, including statesmen.