Management Of Scientific Research In Developing Countries

This document, "Management of Scientific Research in Developing Countries" by Ram Prasad, argues that science policy in developing nations is often misdirected, serving the interests of big business and corporate exploitation of natural resources rather than the genuine needs of the masses or national self-reliance.

The author distinguishes between the academic (subjective) and socio-political (objective) aspects of scientific research management. While academic problems are similar globally, the objectives of science differ across socialist, capitalist, and "third world" countries. Socialist nations use science for societal benefit, capitalist nations for private profit, and developing nations often see science and technology playing insignificant roles.

The paper defines science, scientific methodology, technology, and research and development based on UNESCO's definitions, emphasizing the organized, objective study of phenomena, progression from hypothesis to verification, and the codification of information. Technology is defined as knowledge directly related to production or service improvement.

Historically, scholars conducted research alongside teaching. As science became more impactful, it moved to industrial enterprises and then the state. The author stresses the need for scientific workers to have a say in the organization and control of scientific work, advocating for scientifically trained leadership, representation at administrative levels, and the right to participate in workers' organizations.

The text critiques the current state of scientific organizations, particularly in capitalist countries, highlighting how profit motives lead to skewed funding, sector choices, and "aberrations." These include research driven by strategy rather than institutional needs, leading to organizational overhauls that may not address fundamental issues. Mellanby's "Forrester's Law" is cited, suggesting that attempts to improve complex situations can worsen them.

Specific problems identified include:

• Grant-making processes: Grant bodies may avoid funding research already being done elsewhere, creating "reserves" for specific scientists and not always correlating grants with merit. Grant seeking itself can be a specialized, time-consuming job detracting from research.
• Hierarchical team structures: The preference for rigidly organized hierarchical teams, while offering administrative tidiness, can stifle individual genius and alienate the scientific elite, leading to wasted resources and talent.
• "Benchless" scientists: The increase in research staff without a corresponding increase in original output, and the tendency for heads of departments to have published little, are seen as detrimental to research quality, potentially by sterilizing the best scientists or placing less competent individuals in charge.
• Focus on prestige projects: The example of US space research costing billions, with military and aerospace industry profits being decisive factors, illustrates how research priorities can be driven by profit and prestige rather than national development.

The paper emphasizes the socio-political implications of science management. Science is often cultivated for destructive purposes, and even welfare-oriented inventions are misused for profit. Military interests fuel rapid growth in certain technological fields, with advanced countries profiting from exporting war equipment. The "ruling classes" through government, corporations, and foundations fund research, and scientific elites are often aligned with their priorities.

For underdeveloped countries, the core problem is making science relevant, not just efficient. Science policy is often inherited colonial administrative machinery that obstructs development due to potential social changes threatening the ruling elite. Scientific infrastructures in these countries often develop independently of national needs, driven by vested interests. Common issues include research with no practical utility, heavy investment in sophisticated but unusable equipment, and glorification of science detached from local realities. Scientific contributions are often made under foreign guidance on topics dictated by international journals. This "indoctrination" leads to prioritizing foreign work and qualifications over local needs.

The text highlights the failure of the "internationalism of science and technology" and aid concepts, arguing they keep underdeveloped countries dependent. Technology and aid are often commodities for sale, benefiting a Westernized elite in these countries who seek to maintain privilege. The World Federation of Scientific Workers' charter is quoted, stressing the need for indigenous scientists working in political and economic liberty, with assistance from advanced countries but without foreign economic or political control.

The author critiques "irresponsible scientific elitism" encouraged by science policies in developing countries, where scientists may become "bosses" rather than servants of society. Mere resource injection into science does not guarantee societal well-being. The Indian science policy is mentioned as an example of fostering science but also potentially creating a privileged class. Developing countries need to identify their own development paths, contrary to those of their former colonizers, cherishing resources and recognizing wealth in people and natural potential.

Finally, the paper discusses the role of Trade Unions. It argues that contemporary science is corrupted by money power and irrationality. Fundamental societal changes are needed to orient research towards social needs. Trade unions, united with other workers, can challenge the subjugation of research to minority interests. The author notes a functional inversion where establishments protect the privileged, while trade unions strive for broader societal welfare. The World Federation of Scientific Workers is presented as an example of scientists refusing to be bought and advocating for science's social utility.

The conclusion reiterates that trade unions must be equal partners in scientific organizations. Their involvement is crucial for correcting deviations, especially in developing countries where market forces are devastating. Developing nations can leverage their backwardness by creating independent programs, learning from advanced countries but understanding their unique functions and managing research skillfully. This requires avoiding solely relying on establishment guidance or foreign experts serving their own interests. The involvement of trade unions is presented as essential for successful research management.