Influence and biochemistry networks in Spain 1950-1975: experimental practice and scientific policy in Europe’s outer boundaries

Abstract

This article describes the process of construction of national and international networks which allowed the promotion of the biochemical scientific area in Spain, the links between political power and scientific authorities in this field and links between the latter and already existing academic authorities. On the other hand, it analyzes the outer boundaries of scientific development, i.e., the participation of its most productive and influential scientists on the research li nes introduced by the center. Finally, it states that, when examining which could have been the true needs that justified the essentially dependent character of scientific development, then the contingencies typical of political history become a factor deserving a detailed study, capable of being added to another one: the absence of a tradition and closely linked to it.