Here is another article from Big Think. Most of what Ehan Siegal writes is consistent with my own views. A short synopsis is below but here are some headlines.
- In order to be successful as a society, we have to commit to working together, collectively, for the common good of all of us, including investing resources in endeavors that benefit us all.
- There’s perhaps no investment a society can make that’s more powerful, in terms of long-term benefits and a national ROI, than in pushing forward basic, fundamental scientific research.
He may be optimistic that government will actually move down this path bit there may be some small hope
Summary
In “4 Key Steps to Transform the USA Back into a Scientific Nation,” astrophysicist Ethan Siegel outlines a strategic plan to revitalize America’s commitment to science and technology. He emphasizes that, despite recent setbacks, the nation can reclaim its leadership in scientific innovation by implementing the following four steps:bigthink.com
- Invest in Fundamental Scientific Research: Siegel argues for increased funding in basic research across disciplines, highlighting that such investments have historically led to significant technological advancements and economic growth.
- Enhance Science Education: Improving STEM education at all levels is crucial. Siegel advocates for curricula that foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing students to tackle future scientific challenges.bigthink.com
- Promote Evidence-Based Policy: He stresses the importance of grounding public policy in scientific evidence, ensuring that decisions on issues like climate change and public health are informed by the best available data.
- Foster a Culture that Values Science: Cultivating public appreciation for science involves combating misinformation and encouraging media to accurately represent scientific findings, thereby building trust between scientists and the public.
By adopting these measures, Siegel believes the United States can overcome current challenges and reestablish itself as a global leader in science and technology.