Considerations About How to Eliminate the Technological Backwardness of Latin America

Abstract

This chapter deals with the relation between geographical characteristics of Latin America and the occurrence of innovations. Although representing about 9% of the world population, Latin America accounts for only 1.2% of total global investment in science and technology. If we consider production of patents participation is even lower. The objective of this chapter is to analyze the reasons for this backwardness and to show that there are historical reasons for this. The approach of this chapter is to observe the largest local companies of the region. This chapter dedicates attention to the institutional aspects as well.\r\r