Science and Technology at the World Bank, 1968–83

Author: Weiss, Charles

Source: History and Technology, Volume 22, Number 1, Number 1/March 2006 , pp. 81-104(24)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

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Abstract:

The World Bank was an important supporter of science and technology during the period 1968–83. President Robert McNamara's poverty oriented strategy created challenges that led to technological research, technology assessment and technological innovation in agriculture, forestry, civil works construction, sanitation, and many other fields of development. The Bank also pioneered in financing governmental mechanisms to stimulate industrial innovation. On the other hand, its support to science and technology was limited by lack of an overall policy and systematic support from top management, as well as by cumbersome procedures designed for large infrastructural projects. Even so, its financial independence, its strong leadership, its experienced and non-political technical staff, and its ability to scale up successful innovations through its project lending, made it an important promoter of appropriate technology in the developing world.

Keywords: Technology Transfer; Information Technology; Impact of Technology; Technology for Developing Countries; Technology Strategy

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/07341510500504502

Publication date: 2006-03-01

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