The Uncertain Quest: Science, Technology, and Development

Science - "empirical knowledge" - and technology - "applied science" - have long played a key role in social development. In modern times they have come to be seen as absolutely essential factors in the achievement of economic growth and development. And though many dispute their ascendancy and legitimately point to their abuses, there is no escaping their presence and impact.Taking as a main theme the central role of science and technology in economic progress, this first-of-a-kind sourcebook gathers together the perspectives and expertise of an international body of specialists in science and technology policy to examine the role of science and technology in development, and assess their social, economic, and political dimensions. The authors look at the key issues in relation to the exigencies of developing countries in the "new international context." They emphasize the complexity of the links between science, technology, and development and the important insights to be gained from the study of these links. The authors also point out that, despite science and technology's promise of social and economic progress, such progress is less than ever an inevitable result of their application - though there is no doubt about what can be achieved through science and technology, the quest is an uncertain one.