Science Policy: A Tool for Coping with Challenges

Abstract

The article deals with selected aspects of science and research policy of the EU (R&D policy) relevant to the development of innovation culture. Present changes in this field are related to the changes in production and distribution of knowledge, to the new goals and priorities in science and research of the European knowledge society, and to the new social, economic, and political challenges, presented by the broadening and intensifying global competition. The study points out the role of the central administration of science by the European Commission, the function of the Framework Programs of the EU, and its consequences for the science policy in the Czech Republic.