Science and mobility: Is physical location relevant?

This article discusses the world distribution of scientists, engineers, and technologists and the movement of these personnel from peripheral countries to central countries. It begins with an analysis of the US as the center of attraction for scientists and technologists, using Latin America as an example. It characterizes mobility and migration flows and examines the migration of Venezuelan scientists and technologists to the US. Finally, it discusses the relevance of intellectual patrimony and physical location in view of the possibilities offered by information and communication technology (ICT).