The New Invisible College: Science as a Social Network

Today the organization of science is undergoing a fundamental transformation away from national systems to a global network. Quantitative data and extensive interviews will be presented to show the emergence of global science networks and to trace the dynamics driving their growth. The shift from national science systems to global networks creates unprecedented opportunities for developing countries to tap science's potential. Rather than squander resources in vain efforts to mimic the scientific establishments of the twentieth century, developing country governments can leverage networks by creating incentives for top-notch scientists to focus on research that addresses their concerns and by finding ways to tie knowledge to local problem solving. This presentation shows the promise of an “invisible college” model for understanding and governing science.