Citizen science's (CS) deployment and benefit over the last ten years have been remarkably substantial in their contributions to the massification of citizen participation in tech-based CS projects. Insights into how CS projects influence community changes through proposals of actions and public policies are essential to understanding how they…

Discusses public policy formation concerning the recombinant DNA controversy. Compares this issue with the case of atomic energy in 1946. (MA)

As science and engineering are taking on an increasing political importance in a knowledge-driven economy, there is growing need for Governments, scientists, industrialists and voluntary groups to measure the degree to which national science policies are contributing effectively to economic and social wellbeing. However, the long-term and diffuse…

After three decades of apparent failures on international tests, the United States has somehow managed to maintain a high research productivity level. The most difficult challenge is not improving educational quality for science and engineering majors, but providing a better education for the general student living in a world that requires…

Problems and opportunities for university scientists arising from their growing interaction with state and local governments are discussed. (DT)

Spain has begun a serious effort to increase its scientific and technological research efforts and to develop a large body of qualified researchers to participate in areas of science important to the European Economic Community. (MSE)

In order to provide public access to scientific expertise, the Dutch have instituted a science shops program. Science advisory groups, located at five universities, promote socially relevant research in the universities and provide technical information to client groups. (BB)

Perceived risk is a function of information, knowledge, values, and perception. This exercise is designed to illustrate that in many situations there is no correct answer, only best-alternative choices. The exercise has five parts in which students work in groups of five. (LZ)

This article suggests that the American public is experiencing growing alienation from scientific inquiry and there is no national science policy. The research capacity of the United States is declining, and scientists have been reluctant to speak out. Concern exists that open disagreement among scientists would be more damaging than helpful.…

Offers perspectives on the status and direction of federal science policy. Assesses current efforts dealing with megaprojects, basic research, and cooperative projects. Provides suggestions for improving federal science policy so as to better promote industrial competitiveness. (ML)

Contains excerpts from a special study on the AIDS epidemic by the Institute of Medicine and National Academy of Sciences. Presents an overview of the problem, outlines educational needs and public health measures, and identifies future research needs. (ML)

Liberal arts graduates should be educated in these aspects of science: hypothesis and experimentation as the basis of scientific thought, problems of translating scientific thought into economic and social benefits, concepts of probability and uncertainty, and conflicts in scientific, technological, and public policy goals. (MSE)

Illustrates, with three case histories, that outside peer review of public policy analysis is critically needed, is feasible, and can have an important impact. These case histories are: (1) safety of today's commercial nuclear power plants; (2) necessity of plutonium breeder reactors; and (3) consequences of "limited" nuclear war.…

Reviews the state of scientific and technological research in Great Britain and discusses efforts to insure its growth. Advocates a national plan for science that would provide a more balanced set of national research and development priorities. Addresses concerns related to the shortage of scientists and the condition of education. (ML)

Reviews the findings of the White House Science Council's Panel on the Health of United States Colleges and Universities. Assesses the university research community funding policy. Makes recommendations for policy change, facility improvement, and restructuring of grants. (JM)