[docmechanic]

Looking at scientific publications per capita shows that currently the research output of a nation is not strictly a function of population. Note that the UK and Germany both appear in the top five per capita. Further, both China and India are nowhere near the top of the list on a per capita basis.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_number_of...

[trevorboaconstr]

I understand what you’re saying. I see the data. That’s why I clarified my statement with —- if ‘resource parity’.

I think the data, while true, doesn’t do a great job of illustrating culture, tradition, education policy, and industrial policy.

That’s just my interpretation though. Like I said, knowing what I know about India and China in conjunction with their large populations, and their potential for increased growth and resource development, I don’t feel like it’s anything you should be spilling tea over. I would be more concerned if the US had a drop in total yearly publications rather than being overtaken.

[docmechanic]

Agreed.

Just trying to stimulate a discussion on what I find an interesting topic. Curious if someone would opine about "free markets" or "democratic governance". Didn't think I'd live to see the ISS politicized - and science generally - but here we are.