The Research System

Abstract

In its task of determining the criteria and methods that will enable univer­ sity establishments to adapt more readily to the requirements of re­ search, the Committee for Science Policy of the Organization for Eco­ nomic Co-operation and Development has published Volume 1* of The Re­ search System which concentrates particularly on the situation in France, Fed. Rep. Germany and the U.K. The survey readily admits the difficulties of distinguishing between fundamental and other types of research. In the event, it was decided that the study should not restrict itself to ‘nonoriented’ research, free from any con­ cern with utility. Whilst the survey recognises the recent change in the orientation of science policies arising from the new political concerns as to the possible contributions of science and technology to economic and so­ cial development, it states clearly that previous high hopes that the research system would lead to practical results were excessive.