Maldistribution of science and technology

Gap in scientific and technological capacity
Concentration of science and technology

Nature

The maldistribution of science and technology refers to the unequal access and benefits derived from scientific advancements and technological innovations across different regions, communities, and socioeconomic groups. This disparity often results in a concentration of resources, knowledge, and opportunities in developed areas, leaving underprivileged populations with limited access to essential technologies and scientific education. Such imbalances can exacerbate existing inequalities, hinder economic development, and impede social progress. Addressing this issue is crucial for fostering inclusive growth, ensuring equitable access to technological advancements, and promoting global collaboration in scientific research and innovation.

Incidence

In the UK, concern has been expressed at a north-south divide in science and technology capability, with government policy favouring the south-east at the expense of the northern and regional universities. It was argued that high-tech industry favoured areas with a well-developed scientific and academic infrastructure, and so it was all the more important to maintain strong university science departments in the UK's economically depressed regions.

In most developing countries, the number of scientists and engineers per 10,000 population in the 1970s was below 50 and that of technicians below 250. In market developed countries and in the centrally planned economies the comparable ranges were 100-3000 for scientists and engineers and 250-1,000 for technicians. That developing countries accounted for about 12% of the research and development manpower and only 3% of the spending indicates also a much lower spending per researcher.

Claim

The development of global science programmes in subjects such as oceanography, ozone depletion, global warming and seismology require inputs of data from scientists all over the world.

Breakthroughs in technology, such as the Internet, can open a fast track to knowledge-based growth in rich and poor countries alike, but at present benefit the relatively well-off and educated: 88 per cent of users live in industrialized countries, which collectively represent just 17 per cent of the world's population. The literally well connected have an overpowering advantage over the unconnected poor, whose voices and concerns are being left out of the global conversation.

Counter-claim

The maldistribution of science and technology is often overstated. In a world driven by innovation, resources naturally gravitate towards regions with the most potential for growth. This dynamic fosters competition, spurring advancements that benefit society as a whole. Rather than viewing disparities as a problem, we should embrace them as catalysts for progress. Focusing on equitable distribution distracts from the real issue: encouraging creativity and entrepreneurship, which ultimately leads to broader benefits for everyone.