China's drive to close the technological gap : S and T reform and the imperative to catch up

It would appear that many western observers of China, with some notable exceptions, have systematically underestimated the importance attached to S & T (science and technology) development by both the Maoist and post-Mao leadership. It is argued that it is difficult to understand the complexities of Chinese affairs since 1949 within the political, economic spheres without direct reference to China's research and development (R & D) and education system. After discussing the underlying basis of S & T reform in China, the author looks at how S & T are used to serve the economy, the management and utilization of S & T personnel, the major technological initiatives of the country etc. (DÜI-Sen)