The Amilcar Herrera Public Lecture in Science, Technology and Development

UNU-INTECH launched the Amilcar Herrera public lecture series in 2001. The aim of the Lecture Series is to raise awareness of the interconnectedness of science, technological innovation and development, amongst the general public in The Netherlands and in neighbouring countries.

The Series is named for Amilcar Herrera, the late director of the Fundacion Bariloche in Argentina. The life of Professor Herrera, a scientist who was also a dedicated activist for social change, superbly illustrates the interdisciplinary nature of science, technology and development. Professor Herrera coordinated the team that formulated the Latin American World Model, a foresight exercise designed to demonstrate that it is possible to construct different visions of the future, depending upon the social actors involved.

As a scientist Amilcar Herrera was not confined to one discipline. The mark of scientific excellence, in his view, was its recognition of the social context within which research is undertaken. He believed that scientific development is an essential component in technological innovation, which in turn is central to achieving social change in the developing countries. He also clearly understood the need to integrate Science and Technology Policy with other public policies in order to realize these broader objectives. In similar vein, Professor Herrera viewed policy as being not merely a collection of government plans, but an instrument with which to implement a national project -itself the outcome of scenarios constructed through the participation of the most varied segments of society. His deep awareness of the problems of the world, which he acknowledged and studied, did not make him a cynic, but a believer and an activist for social change. As an activist he researched, wrote, talked, and listened, listened and listened. He had a special respect and interest for the young and women whose involvement, he often said, was critical in changing the world.

The Amilcar Herrera lecture is given by internationally recognized scholars who have contributed to the field of Science, Technology and Development.

Download full texts of Past Herrera Lectures