The Challenge of Government Science

Abstract

The failure of government science to meet Rus sian accomplishments in space research poses fundamental questions about American governmental and social institutions which are of deep concern to public administrators. These questions do not find their solution in relatively minor adjust ments of the administrative machinery such as have been made since the fall of 1957. They relate to our pluralistic values, our lack of a sense of national purpose and our system of Presi dential leadership made weak by the checks and balances which are grounded in the Constitution.

The contrast between Russian and American scientific ca pacities, and the relative ability of the two societies to plan and to direct resources to those activities which further the national interest, lead to the following basic questions: do we need constitutional reform to provide for a stronger Presi dency and for a modification of the costly and inefficient fed eral system? Must we not anticipate national planning so as to assure that the creative and productive capacities of the country go first to efforts of high national importance? Be yond these basic questions there are a number of urgent mat ters which challenge public administrators, for example, the quick development of an effective research communications system and the treatment of scientists in government in a man ner commensurate with their importance to the national well- being.