ABSTRACT
The purpose of this chapter develops an analytical framework in order to compare recent developments in science and technology policy in China and Vietnam. The chapter tries to find a way to identify the sources of cultural tension that have constrained the reform process and can be expected to do so in the future. The bureaucratic culture, with its base in the military and state apparatus, serves to hinder the efforts of those who would, on the one hand, orient science and technology more directly to the economic market place. On the other, bring environmental protection and conservation into the centre of science and technology policy-making. The contrasting economic and academic cultures can be expected to grow under the influence of the reform process taking place in the former Soviet Union. Vitally important to all of you will be how effective these two different cultures are in reaching meaningful compromises with the still hegemonic bureaucratic policy culture.
