In Retrospect: Science — The Endless Frontier | Nature
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Vannevar Bush's pivotal report that marked the beginning of modern science policy catapulted the phrase 'basic research' into popular usage, explains Roger Pielke Jr.
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Author information<br>Authors and Affiliations<br>Roger Pielke Jr is at the Center for Science and Technology Policy Research, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, USA. pielke@colorado.edu,<br>Roger Pielke Jr
AuthorsRoger Pielke JrView author publications<br>Search author on:PubMed Google Scholar
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About this article<br>Cite this article<br>Pielke, R. In Retrospect: Science — The Endless Frontier.<br>Nature 466 , 922–923 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1038/466922a<br>Download citation<br>Published: 18 August 2010
Issue date: 19 August 2010
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/466922a
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Jim Woodgett 18 August 2010, 15:49
Using terminology to try to satisfy both the political masters and the research endeavour can be risky. Part of the reduction in usage of the term basic research is likely due to the emergence of translational research, as in the sector that converts new knowledge into practical use. As a consequence and reaction, basic scientists have popularized the term "discovery research". Yet, the fact remains that all types of research are important. It's a pipeline which, when effective, acts as a well-spring of ideas that broaden knowledge that, occasionally, sprouts incredibly useful applications that generate wealth that helps support more investment in discovery. This process has been examined to death but by its very nature is unpredictable. All we can do is ensure that the best quality is achieved at every level and that we do not inadvertently limit the resources and ideas of those who ultimately practice this bizarre but essential driver of progress.
Robert Cook-Deegan 19 August 2010, 16:06
Roger,<br>Really nice, concise summary of a lot of history relevant to science policy.
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