NEWS June 13 1955 WALTER J. MURPHY, Editor
Basic Research—The Sine Qua Non w E OWE to basic research the fabulous improvement in the health of the nation; the greatest industrial productivity known to man; the weapons of defense which have protected our independence; and our knowledge of the laws which govern the universe." "The safety, the increase of productivity, and the advancement of health in our nation must come from constantly increasing knowledge through fundamental research." To help attain this goal, the Federal Government should give greater support to basic and medical research. These observations and recommendations were among the most significant in the newest report to Congress b y the Hoover Commission (Commission on Organization of the Executive Branch of the Government). Considering the magnitude of the Government's research and development program, a recommendation to increase expenditures is significant. It is doubly significant because earlier Hoover Commission reports have consistently recommended economies and reductions in expenditures. The commission makes its recommendation even while recognizing that the U. S. Government has "the largest integrated scientific and technical endeavor that any nation has ever attempted." This year federal government expenditures for research and development will total $2.4 billion while those of nongovernmental sources will reach an estimated $2.T billion. Major government expenditures are represented by the Department of Defense which accounts for $2.05 billion; civilian agencies expend $350 million. The present $2.4 billion level is 25 times greater than that just prior to World War II. The commission notes, however, that only a little more than 5% ( $ 1 3 0 million) of the government expenditures are allocated to basic research and of this amount the defense agencies account for $77 million. Special reference is made to the need for and the benefits from basic research in medical and health fields. The lack of adequate state and public support of medical schools hinders the training in this field, the commission notes. Less than 1% ($18 million) of the total research and development expenditures are devoted to basic medical research. To show the needs in this area, the commission points out that the National Institutes of Health has pending 7 2 3 research projects totaling $7.4 milhon for which appropriations have not been requested. Major emphasis in the report is on the program of the defense agencies. While the report sets forth several criticisms of the program and outlines proposed remedial steps (see page 2 5 0 2 ) , it emphasizes that "there is no tribute great enough to express the nation's obligations to its scientists, engineers, and military personnel, for their contributions to our constantly increasing productivity and the strengthening of our national defense. . . . Comments on secondary weak-
nesses in organization are not intended to disparage this enormous accomplishment but to constructively improve its management, whose major conduct has the approbation of this commission." It is likely that the commission's recommendations, particularly those relatkig t o a reorganization of the military scientific activities, will cause some dissension. These would include a shift of some phases of research from military to civilian organization. It also appears likely that little will be done this year with respect to increased appropriations for basic research. Most government agency budgets have been under consideration for some time and addition of newmajor items appears unlikely. Kfforts of the Administration to reduce the national budget will also tend to work against added expenditures. It is our belief, however, that reports of the Hoover Commission are considered to be authoritative b y the Administration and by members of Congress. Even though added funds might not be forthcoming immediately, the groundwork has been laid. Some of the recommendations, however, do not involve additional funds. Those relating to administration of research and development programs in the D e partment of Defense will require new legislation; others can be put into effect by the Administration without Congressional action.
Local Section Public Relations A w a r d \r UBLIC understanding and appreciation of the contributions of the chemical profession to the nation's welfare begin at t h e grass-roots level. One of the most effective mediums for a grass-roots approach is the local section organization. Throughout the years the A C S local sections, through their public relations programs, have worked toward a better understanding of t h e profession of chemistry and chemical engineering. Their efforts have taken many directions and include use of such outlets as newspapers, radio and television; work with educational institutions to interest young people in science; and active participation in such events as Chemical Progress Week. In recognition of these efforts, t h e Board of Directors, on recommendation of the Committee on Local Sectional Activities, has authorized establishment of the AMERICAN
CHE^IICAL
SOCIETY
Local Section
Public
Relations Award. Separate awards, in the form of appropriate certificates, will b e m a d e for the small (less than 200 members), medium ( 2 0 0 to 499 members), middle ( 5 0 0 to 999 members) a n d large (over 1OO0 members) sections. Nominations for awards will b e made b y an award committee acting on recommendations made b y the ACS Council's Standing Committee on Local Section Activities. The presentations will b e made at a local section meeting by an A C S official or to a representative of the local section at a meeting of the local section officers during a national meeting. T h e first awards will be granted in 1 9 5 6 .
