Comparative analysis of scientific output of BRIC countries

Abstract

Based on data for the period 1980-2009 downloaded from the Scopus database, an attempt is made to analyse the growth of publication share in BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China) vis-a-vis the United States in terms of world publications output and emerging areas and disciplines during 1980–2009. Also, comparative estimates are made using a competition model to analyse the emerging patterns of scientific publication in the BRIC region. Results indicate that China may be an emerging leader in scientific publication followed by India among the BRIC countries.