14 DAY TRIAL // Large concentrations of people tend to foster scientific innovations, a new study says. More people means more backgrounds and more chances that researchers with complementary skills could meet and develop new ideas. The dynamics of social interactions are much more intense within major urban centers, as opposed to those in small towns, where only a few have the potential to obtain major breakthroughs in various fields of science.
Researchers at the Cornell University (CU) in Ithaca, New York, have recently developed a complex computer program that can predict exactly how social networking helps scientific progress. Based on complex algorithmic calculations, the model hints that the number of connections people establish in large cities is very disproportionate compared to those inhabitants of small towns create between themselves. That may seem inaccurate, considering that, generally speaking, people in small cities tend to know everyone in the area where they live.
But CU scientist Samuel Arbesman believes that members of the scientific community are more likely to be attracted to cities the size of New York or Los Angeles, when deciding to change their residence. Traditionally, important metropolises are also college centers and have a rich history of famous scientists working and living there. The most important research laboratories in any country are located within the capital city and in a few other important cities. Conventions are also held at major centers in highly-urbanized areas, so more people could join.
Large concentrations of population also favor the possibility for many people to take an interest in sciences, as the general public is more exposed and susceptible to scientific innovation than in smaller cities. As a result, all new discoveries or patents are first applied in major urban centers and most of them are received and incorporated into the basic lifestyle very quickly. Small towns tend to be more conservative and it may take a couple of years before progress reaches them.