Reuters/Brian Snyder
A woman walks past a display of a brain slice.
But for that to happen, a country must create an environment conducive to creative activity that is supported by both the public and private sectors.
More concretely, we're talking about having high-quality scientific research institutions, sufficient investment in research and development, and protection of intellectual property, according to the recent report by the World Economic Forum.
We took a closer look at the 12 countries that have successfully fostered such environments, and are leading the way as the most innovative countries in the world, according to data in the WEF's report. Check them out below.