[Competitiveness in science. Today, tomorrow, and forever].

Area of Science:

• Science and Technology Policy
• Research and Development Management

Context:

• Paternalistic governments and bureaucratic administrations often lead to suboptimal science policy.
• Mediocre policy decisions hinder the production of significant scientific research.
• International competitiveness in science is crucial for national advancement.

Purpose:

• To advocate for policy changes that intensify individual competitiveness in science.
• To identify common features that foster competitiveness in leading scientific nations.
• To redefine the role of government in promoting science and technology.

Summary:

• Individual competitiveness is key to improving science and technology policy.
• Nations excelling in science, such as Japan, USA, and Canada, share traits like administrative continuity, high academic standards, and educated workforces.
• Governments should focus on fiscal policy for education and scientific activity, and implement rules that boost individual competitiveness.

Impact:

• Increased individual competitiveness can lead to significant research breakthroughs.
• Elevating academic performance expectations and re-evaluating institutional functions are necessary adjustments.
• This approach necessitates potentially unpopular political decisions for long-term scientific advancement.