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Developing science: Scientific performance and brain drains in the developing world

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  • Weinberg, Bruce A.

Abstract

Establishing a strong scientific community is important as countries develop and requires both producing and retaining of important scientists. We show that developing countries produce a sizeable number of important scientists, but that they experience a tremendous brain drain. Education levels, population, and per capita GDP are positively related to the number of important scientists born in and staying in a country. Our analysis indicates that democracy and urbanization are associated with the production of more important scientists although democracy is associated with more out-migration.

Suggested Citation

  • Weinberg, Bruce A., 2011. "Developing science: Scientific performance and brain drains in the developing world," Journal of Development Economics, Elsevier, vol. 95(1), pages 95-104, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:deveco:v:95:y:2011:i:1:p:95-104
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