Three-quarters (76%) of Americans say that it is important for the U.S. to be a global leader in scientific research.
U.S. Leadership in Research
The economic dominance of the United States over the past half-century was built on a foundation of intellectual freedom, discovery and innovation, which in turn depended on well-funded scientific research. Although the U.S. is still leading the world in science and research investment, there are clear indicators that other countries are successfully emulating the American model.
The American Academy of Arts and Sciences issued the ARISE (Advancing Research in Science and Engineering) report (PDF) in 2008. It recommends investing in early career scientists and high risk - high reward research as a means to maintain America's leadership.
Recent Competitiveness Legislation
In response to the recommendations in The National Academies' 2005 report, Rising Above the Gathering Storm, Congress passed and the President signed the America COMPETES Act, which is designed to ensure our nation's competitive position in the world through improvements to math and science education and a strong commitment to research.
Although the COMPETES Act is a step in the right direction, advocates for research must keep the spotlight on competitiveness.
Competitiveness Resources
See some of the materials we have developed and let your elected officials know that investing in research and education are essential to maintaining the United States' global leadership.