Towards an analytical approach and policy for interactions between science, universities and society in Latin America

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to argue about the importance of knowledge networks approach, generated in the field of social studies of science and technology (STS), for the analysis of the relationships between science, university and society. The construction of interactive, collaborative and learning processes among actors, are key factors to produce and use knowledge for the social welfare of our populations. The paper outlines the ideas that have dominated science and technology policies in Latin America. It argues about the importance of knowledge networks approaches and regional and local perspective within countries, both, to analyze the generation, sharing and use of knowledge and, to the design and implementation of pubic policies on science, technology and innovation. It documents if the use of knowledge networks approach and regional perspective are considered in the new conceptions of science, technology and innovation policies in Latin America that are highlight the importance of social inclusion; and, finally, some arguments are offered about the future of scientific and technological development considering the relationships between university and society