Globalization, Science and Development

Abstract

The era of knowledge economies is inextricably linked with the current wave of globalization, which is asymmetrically benefiting Northern countries and thereby exacerbating the enormous wealth and quality of life gap with their Southern counterparts. Meanwhile, scientists, governments, and commercial institutions in the South are searching for effective ways to respond. Rather than insisting on developing indigenous technologies when abundant and well-proven technologies already exist, scientists can help choose the right ones and learn how to use them in specific contexts. As science and scientists are crucial in knowledge economies, they are increasingly figuring prominently in government decision-making. The wealth of nations in the era of knowledge economies is not based in their reserve of raw materials, but in their knowledge, research, technology, and innovation capacity. In short, for the Third World in particular, human capacity building is essential. In recent decades, a few Third World nations have experienced numerous world class scientific and technological achievements. This paper examines a few such national cases as well as makes assessments of necessary measures for nations of the South to advance with science and technology in service of socioeconomic development at the present juncture.