Science in the National Interest

(Adopted by Council on August 03, 1994)

America's efforts to create a more secure, healthy and prosperous society must involve the wise use of science. With the abrupt end of the Cold War, it became essential to reexamine the assumptions that have governed U.S. science policy since World War II. President Clinton, Vice President Gore, and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy are to be commended for meeting this challenge, recasting America's science policy in a form appropriate to today's and tomorrow's world.

"Science in the National Interest" recognizes that long-term investments in education, research, and in the scientific infrastructure are essential for the nation's well being in the 21st century. It assesses the balance between research directed toward the immediate needs of society and long- range fundamental research aimed at a better understanding of Nature. The new policy not only recognizes the need to invest in the training of tomorrow's scientists but also in the scientific education of the general public. It also recognizes the need for more effective coupling of the universities with industry.

The American Physical Society's 43,000 members serve the nation by conducting research in industry, university and government laboratories and training the next generation of physicists. We welcome the Administration's challenge to the scientific community to advance the scientific frontiers and simultaneously to participate more vigorously in addressing broad societal needs, particularly improvements in science education and in the diversity of the scientific workforce. We look forward to working with the Administration and with Congress to translate this policy into new programs.