AbstractThe author discusses concepts of basic science, applied science, and technology, and of their relationships, and reviews the status of applied scientific research in developing countries. He finds that there is very little applied scientific research in these countries; this isnotcaused by ‘too much’ basic scientific research; the predominant mode of activity under the heading of ‘science and technology’ is imitative technological manipulations based on trial and error, which is mainly ineffective. The causes of this state of affairs can be traced to a combination of ten factors. Some remedial action is suggested to improve the situation.