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 significant gaps in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, particularly between developed and developing nations. Factors contributing to this issue include inadequate funding, lack of infrastructure, and limited access to education and resources. The maldistribution exacerbates existing inequalities, hindering global progress and innovation, and poses challenges for sustainable development, social equity, and the overall advancement of human knowledge and well-being.

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 infrastructure and talent to utilize them effectively. This dynamic fosters competition and accelerates progress. Instead of lamenting disparities, we should celebrate the advancements made in thriving areas. Focusing on perceived inequities distracts from the real issues of innovation and growth, which ultimately benefit society as a whole. Let progress flourish where it can!