The announcement by Science Minister Judith Collins this week that half of New Zealand's sole fund for fundamental science will now go to research with economic benefits - with social sciences and the humanities no longer supported - came as a shock to many.
The article from the New Zealand Herald discusses the implications of funding scientific research primarily for economic returns, highlighting the inherent unpredictability and long-term nature of scientific discovery. It argues that while the idea of investing in research with immediate economic benefits sounds appealing, science does not work this way. The piece points out that many significant scientific breakthroughs, like the discovery of penicillin, were not initially aimed at economic gain but arose from curiosity-driven research. The article critiques the government's approach to funding, suggesting that an overemphasis on short-term economic outcomes could stifle innovation and miss out on potentially revolutionary discoveries. It emphasizes that science often progresses through serendipity and the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, which can eventually lead to unforeseen applications and economic benefits. The author advocates for a balanced approach where both applied and basic research are supported to foster a vibrant scientific community and economy.
Science & Technology
Fri, December 6, 2024
