14 questions for a president
Posted: Thursday, July 03, 2008 1:25 PM by Alan Boyle
Science Debate 2008 couldn't quite pull off a political debate on science and technology issues during the presidential primary season, but the big contest is still ahead of us. This week, the effort's organizers laid out a list of 14 questions to focus the discussion for the next four months. The questions make clear that the sci-tech debate isn't just the province of lab-coated geeks, but touches upon society's most important issues.
The questions have been submitted to the top presidential candidates, with the request that they provide written responses and address the questions in a nationally televised forum. Any answers received will be posted on the Science Debate 2008 Web site. But the questions are too good to reserve for the candidates alone. They deserve to be addressed by the public as well. Here's the rundown:
1. Innovation. Science and technology have been responsible for half of the growth of the American economy since WWII. But several recent reports question America’s continued leadership in these vital areas. What policies will you support to ensure that America remains the world leader in innovation?
2. Climate Change. The Earth’s climate is changing and there is concern about the potentially adverse effects of these changes on life on the planet. What is your position on the following measures that have been proposed to address global climate change — a cap-and-trade system, a carbon tax, increased fuel-economy standards, or research? Are there other policies you would support?
3. Energy. Many policymakers and scientists say energy security and sustainability are major problems facing the United States this century. What policies would you support to meet demand for energy while ensuring an economically and environmentally sustainable future?
4. Education. A comparison of 15-year-olds in 30 wealthy nations found that average science scores among U.S. students ranked 17th, while average U.S. math scores ranked 24th. What role do you think the federal government should play in preparing K-12 students for the science- and technology-driven 21st century?
5. National Security. Science and technology are at the core of national security like never before. What is your view of how science and technology can best be used to ensure national security, and where should we put our focus?
6. Pandemics and Biosecurity. Some estimates suggest that if H5N1 Avian Flu becomes a pandemic it could kill more than 300 million people. In an era of constant and rapid international travel, what steps should the United States take to protect our population from global pandemics or deliberate biological attacks?
7. Genetics research. The field of genetics has the potential to improve human health and nutrition, but many people are concerned about the effects of genetic modification both in humans and in agriculture. What is the right policy balance between the benefits of genetic advances and their potential risks?
8. Stem cells. Stem cell research advocates say it may successfully lead to treatments for many chronic diseases and injuries, saving lives, but opponents argue that using embryos as a source for stem cells destroys human life. What is your position on government regulation and funding of stem cell research?
9. Ocean Health. Scientists estimate that some 75 percent of the world’s fisheries are in serious decline and habitats around the world like coral reefs are seriously threatened. What steps, if any, should the United States take during your presidency to protect ocean health?
10. Water. Thirty-nine states expect some level of water shortage over the next decade, and scientific studies suggest that a majority of our water resources are at risk. What policies would you support to meet demand for water resources?
11. Space. The study of Earth from space can yield important information about climate change; focus on the cosmos can advance our understanding of the universe; and manned space travel can help us inspire new generations of youth to go into science. Can we afford all of them? How would you prioritize space in your administration?
12. Scientific Integrity. Many government scientists report political interference in their job. Is it acceptable for elected officials to hold back or alter scientific reports if they conflict with their own views, and how will you balance scientific information with politics and personal beliefs in your decision-making?
13. Research. For many years, Congress has recognized the importance of science and engineering research to realizing our national goals. Given that the next Congress will likely face spending constraints, what priority would you give to investment in basic research in upcoming budgets?
14. Health. Americans are increasingly concerned with the cost, quality and availability of health care. How do you see science, research and technology contributing to improved health and quality of life?
As we go into the holiday weekend marking America's independence, the prospects for future advances in science and technology are mixed. The problems we're facing - ranging from global climate change and national energy dependence to international competitiveness - aren't getting easier, but at least they're getting more attention.
On the basic-research front, the outlook is somewhat less gloomy than it was six months ago: A spending bill signed into law this week restores some of the research funding that was axed by Congress last December, including $62.5 million for the Energy Department's science programs. That will ease some of the pain for the Fermilab particle-physics center and other federal research facilities, but it won't put everything back the way it was. (The American Institute of Physics provides added perspective.)
How do you view the science scene? Where do you stand on the 14 questions? Is the lab beaker half-empty or half-full? Please feel free to add your comments below.
