Societies will, of course, wish to exercise prudence in…
“Societies will, of course, wish to exercise prudence in deciding which technologies that is, which applications of science are to be pursued and which not. But without funding basic research, without supporting the acquisition of knowledge for its own sake, our options become dangerously limited.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Societies must balance careful selection of technologies with robust support for basic research, otherwise future choices narrow dangerously.
In simple terms: Choose technologies wisely but fund pure research.
Key Takeaway
Invest in knowledge for its own sake.
Themes
science policy
research funding
future planning
Mood
thoughtful
concerned
Type
policy
reflective
When to use this quote
- government budgeting
- academic grants
- private R&D
- technology roadmaps
- education programs
Key Concepts
epistemology
innovation management
risk assessment
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies protect basic research from short‑term pressures?
- What mechanisms ensure balanced technology development?
A Different Perspective
Funding constraints and political pressures often limit basic research support.