Resumen

FIGUEROA DELGADO, Silvana Andrea. Science and Technology within the Framework of Liberalization: The Case of Chile. Enlace [online]. 2006, vol.3, n.1, pp.11-26. ISSN 1690-7515.

The following essay begins with recognizing how important the expansion of Science and Technology is for the vitality of nations. This is an indicator that defines whether we are discussing a developed country or an underdeveloped   one. Nevertheless, countries that have achieved development did so through a process that embraced a large extent of protectionism and deliberate State intervention. State participation cannot, of course, be absent or diminished in these processes, especially in underdeveloped countries. In Latin America, a large part of the technical and financial responsibility of Research and Development is assumed by the State. Local private capital, in general terms, does not have this tradition (of investing in Science and Tecnology). However, the context in which Latin America is now entering, where it aims to strengthen its Science and Technology, includes a great contradiction insofar as the present context demands a reduction in the role of the State. This is where my research comes in, taking Chile as an example that demonstrates a historical support of Research and Development and where, at the same time, the application of neoliberal policies is being consolidated. The main hypothesis of this paper is that achieving development in an environment of economic liberalization, or a neoliberal environment, is practically impossible, even when Science and Technology is encouraged.

Palabras clave : science; technology; development; neoliberal policies; Chile.