"Brain draining." Historical and conceptual framework

Abstract

This article describes the specific nature of a kind of selective migration known as "brain draining." It starts by reviewing former migratory phenomena and pointing out some differences with the kind of migration under study. Secondly, it defines the "brain draining" process and analyzes several interpretations of it. Thirdly, it describes the elements to be considered in order to understand the process from the perspective of undeveloped countries. Finally, a balance reflecting the migration of Argentinean researchers on science and technology is presented.