The elaboration and the use of science indicators in the integration of science and technology in development planning process

Abstract

The real-life problems facing the nations, have become enormously complicated. Take the examples of energy andfood, or transport. To consider these problems independently of our social habits and psychological understanding is insufficient. As a result of this, the system complexity and the complexity of individual system components (subsystems) have increased simultaneously. It can be even said that systems complexity increases with the square of technological progress. The application of technology have brought many complex systems into being and operational usefulness. The coupling of science and technology has provided us with unpredictable capabilities to alter the global environment. However, at the some time, we are confronted with new problems and crises. Only recently has science and technology policy come to be regarded as a critical element in development planning strategy. In order to manage the complex problems of their social and economic development, an increasing number of countries are seeking to incorporate policies for science and technology into their national plans. Before formulating science and technology policy, each country has to decide on the various choices that must be made while formulating a development strategy. Such policy and strategy, in general terms, should define the availability of resources and constraints in science and technology progress, aimed to achieve the national objectives. Therefore, the formulation of science and technology policy begins with the determination of economic and social objectives of the country that science and technology is to serve or to help achieve. As an integral part of setting up overall national plans and objectives, particular attention has to be paid to priorities and scientific and technological forecasting.