Abstract

FORUM DE REFLEXAO UNIVERSITARIA ¾ UNICAMP. Desafios da pesquisa no Brasil: uma contribuição ao debate. São Paulo Perspec. [online]. 2002, vol.16, n.4, pp. 15-23. ISSN 0102-8839.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0102-88392002000400004.

This essay analyzes the nature of science and the use of knowledge in peripheral countries. Although Brazil is home to a significant number of accomplished scientists and invests relatively heavily in research, science and the scientific mentality have still not taken firm root in Brazilian society at large, owing largely to the social exclusion of a sizable portion of the populace.

Keywords : science; development; social exclusion.