Aligning Science and Politics: A 40-Year Analysis of Resource Allocation and Policy Priorities in Chilean Science (1982–2021)

In an era of growing inter- and transnationalization of scientific activity, national frameworks remain crucial in shaping the organization of science. Balancing the need for scientific autonomy with the alignment of research and state politics presents a complex challenge, especially in countries that have adopted competitive, project-based funding mechanisms. This paper investigates the intersection of political and scientific priorities at the national level by analyzing the evolution of political interest and resource allocation for science in Chile over a 40-year period (1982–2021). Drawing from publicly available data, including presidential speeches, institutional documents, and funding outcomes from the National Agency for Research and Development (ANID), the study examines a broad range of funding instruments across various disciplines, including social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, and technology. The findings highlight significant transformations over time, such as a gradual yet steady shift toward greater equity in fund distribution, notable differences between disciplinary areas, and evolving thematic priorities. These insights offer a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that align political agendas with scientific research in the context of competitive, project-based funding.