Introduction. Democratizing Higher Education and Science in Latin America

This book discusses the conditions to build reliable science, technology and higher education systems in Latin America, based on international comparative studies, fieldwork and analysis conducted over the last few years. This introductory chapter suggests that science can have a major role in furthering the democratization of society through public policies that foster opportunities to access knowledge and the advanced training of human resources. Broadening the social basis for higher education promotes the qualification of the labor force and contributes decisively to social and economic development. The need to guarantee higher education diversity, strengthening scientific institutions and investing in a strong science base, is deemed as critical, but goes far beyond policies centered on innovation and industry-science relationships. It requires adequate training and attraction of skilled people, as well as promoting scientific and technological culture among society.