Present dangers to science and society

Abstract

Although science has been controversial since its beginnings in classical Greece, the present dangers to it go beyond the financial threats of reduced funding. A few particularly sensitive individuals feel that science has done much to harm the human spirit. The author argues here that science is the new American frontier and that a continuous pursuit of knowledge is essential if further advance is to be achieved. Difficulties and dangers are discussed, such as the loss of interest by most private foundations in the progress of science. It is concluded that an extension of regulations through bureaucracy must be avoided and that common sense and wise leadership are needed.