speni In this regard. w-hile fundamental research is being developed on a steady and selective nasls. A lot of research Institutes have readjusted their research projects, to gear to the needs of the specific requirements of the production sectors, or more directly. io sign ~ontracts with or receive orders from production sectors. 32 By opening their doors to the soclety,these Institutes not only discovered their own social pofentlal,but also receive. more research expenditure for their programmes. {3) The position of Intellectuals In China now Is much Improved, both In terms of working and living conditions. Their role In developing national economy Is being recognized to a high degree. This Is In sharp contrast with the old concept that the lntellect.uals do not constitute part of the working force. Scientists, technical experts and engineers are now Invited to participate In the policy and programming process and their views are highly regarded and reflected In various national and regional plans. For example, Chinese energy experts, on. the basts of studying the existing energy resources and consumption patterns, proposed 13 suggestions regarding energy development. These suggestions were studied seriously and Incorporated Into the overal I national energy plans. Another example Is the propo­ sal by Shanghai scientists to harness and develop the Yangzhe River Delta, to solve resource and pol lutlon problems In a com­ prehensive way. This suggestion has now been adopted by the authority after careful consideration and Is now one of the biggest construction proJects. (4) We have adopted a policy of four shifts, I.e. shift laboratory research to production, shift technology from advanced areas to backward areas, shift defence technologies to civil lan application and shift foreign technologies to domestic utiliza­ tion. Among the 2600 Items obtained In 1980, 50 percent were 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the improvements in the position of intellectuals in China, their role in developing the national economy, and the shift in research focus towards production-oriented projects. It also mentions specific examples of technology transfer and application, such as energy development and river delta development. These topics suggest a strong connection to science, technology, and economic development.

**Category**
Economic development, Science and technology