The pessimism expressed in your Naturejobs feature about the prospects for life sciences in Brazil is justified (Nature 461, 1308–1309; 2009). Unfortunately, the country's science enterprise depends as much on its societal values as on its booming economy and wealth of natural resources.

Brazil's prevailing political and cultural outlook means that its economic growth has not proportionately reduced its chronic poverty and income inequalities. Nor has this growth promoted modernization of its political or financial systems — education, science and technology included.

Poor management of Brazil's abundant natural resources means that, although these account for some 68% of its positive trade balance, the country is left with less than 1% of the money created from its mineral exports. For example, Brazilian iron exports alone totalled US$16 billion last year; however, mining royalties amounted to only $462 million. And with gold royalties at just 1%, Brazil has the world's lowest taxation on gold.

Some sectors are campaigning for new legislation to remedy this situation. A separate strategy will be needed to direct any additional government money towards improving Brazilian science.