The evolutionary character and complexity of technological development is discussed, focusing on the steam engine and computer as examples. Additional topics include characteristics of science/technology, cultural factors in technological development, technology transfer, and problems in technological organization. (JN)

Describes Japan's industrial development and science/technology policy. Topics include policies for promoting industries, rationalization policy for industry, catching up with advanced technology, progression from imitation to creative technology, Japan's advantages in technological development, and problems faced by developing countries today.…

A discussion is presented of future global energy supply and demand problems and two benchmark scenarios showing that time will be the limiting constraint in adapting the energy supply infrastructure to changing resource availability. (Author/SA).

Discusses the probable changes in public attitudes toward science and technology as a result of the engineering accidents of 1979. Results of national polls conducted to identify public confidence in technological progress are included. (HM)

Traces the growth and movement of Japanese research and technology efforts and achievements. Explains policies related to science and technology and examines resultant actions. Provides perspectives on the future direction and role of creativity in Japanese research. (ML)

Discusses plans to develop and naturalize its scientific and technological capabilities. Areas in which Mexico's National Council of Science and Technology selected to focus a national development program include: scholarships for middle-/high-level researchers/technicians; programs to support research and basic/new industries; government-industry…

Reviews the issue of how to preserve the fruits of research in high technology while at the same time avoiding restrictions on researchers' freedom. One solution proposed by Congress and the current administration would prevent technical data from being transferred overseas as well as other restrictions. (Author/SK)

Amid controversy, a former Paris slaughterhouse is being converted into one of the world's largest science museums. The museum will be organized into four major sectors corresponding to different levels at which science and technology touch human lives: exploring, using/producing, living/inhabitating, and communications. The controversy related to…

Assesses the current status of science and technology in India, focusing on developments in agriculture, energy, medicine, space, basic sciences, and engineering. Indicates that although India has benefited in many fields from international collaboration during the last 30 years, the country's leaders have also placed particularly strong emphasis…

A National Academy of Science report ("Physics Through the 1990's") says that American physics has been a highly diversified and productive enterprise, but continued excellence cannot be taken for granted. Progress in six subfields (elementary particle, nuclear, condensed-matter, atomic/molecular, plasma/fluid, and gravitation/cosmology physics)…

Discusses: (1) the synergistic nature of science, technology, and engineering; (2) the benefits and burdens of technology; (3) the resolution of societal issues; and (4) the roles and responsibilities of scientists and engineers in the resolution of societal issues. (JN)

Examines issues related to educational computing. Indicates that although teachers and software makers say that home computers will transform schools, problems of equity and quality of courseware remain unresolved. Points out that 80 percent of educational programs have gone on the market with little or no research or testing. (JN)

The federal role in improving research and development productivity is discussed. A six-point national science and technology data policy is proposed, suggesting that progress ultimately will depend on an overall science and technology policy, the first priority of which is to make available existing knowledge. (Author/JN)

Various issues related to the interface between the natural sciences and the society they serve are addressed. These include direction of British research and development, problems in the business environment preventing the successful use of science, quality of management in successful use of science, and others. (JN)

An account of the activities and role of the Scientific and Technical Association of the People's Republic of China (STAPRC) is presented by the chairman of the organization. (SA)