Looking Back to Look Forward Science and Technology Shirley Farnham taking photo of Space Needle Seattle World's Fair, 1962  Every President since Franklin Roosevelt has paid tribute to the importance of science and research to America’s prosperity, and this story examines how the relationship between government and science has evolved. Click here to listen Full Script Note: Story airdate is Tues, Sept. 30  Reporter's Notebook Keith Seinfeld We all know the federal government is a big funder of science and technology research. But, I was surprised to learn how much this investment grew out of the competition of the Cold War. That became clear as I studied the history of federally-funded research and why it grew so large. The end of the Cold War has not stopped the investment in research, but it’s led to changes. Our panelists – on all sides of the political spectrum -- saw an opportunity today to create an “Apollo Project” for alternative energy technologies (moving away from oil). But, they couldn’t agree on which type of alternative energy should be the focus. What do you think? Should the President launch new science goals for the nation – with a big federal investment? Or is it better for the private sector and individual scientists to set the research agenda? Click here to give us your thoughts.

Science and Technology Resources: History of National Science Foundation | “Science the Endless Frontier" | ScienceDebate2008 | AAAS candidate comparisons

Community invitees who helped us frame the story Mouse over photos for more information

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