Although the budget provides for a three-percent increase in total research funding, real spending would only be 1.4 percent more than it is now, and proposed spending amounts for research and development would actually fall below the current levels. Instead of cutting back on its funding, the government should devote more resources to research.
Moreover, organizations devoted to subjects other than medical research often receive fewer federal funds. It is important that less well-known branches of research are not overlooked; the benefits of scientific research far outweigh the costs.
Another flaw within the government's scientific research funding legislation is the requirement that each applicant must outline specific goals before funding is granted. This limits creativity and ignores the fact that many scientific discoveries and breakthroughs are made while researchers seek something else. Requiring a particular aim of researchers limits the freedom to seek alternative conclusions and hinders the scientific process.
Scientists and researchers also do not have a very strong voice in the government because they do not wish to be involved in politics, unless of course their funding is cut. While this is somewhat understandable, becoming a stronger political force - through stronger lobbying and more vocal support for research - would help the scientific community gain more federal funding. If researchers can show the government that it is a force to be recognized, it could be easier to gain more funding.
The University's Institute for Social Research is a nationally recognized center. This type of institution relies heavily on government appropriations and the government's belief in not only scientific, but also social research. The ISR stands as an example of what research in all fields can accomplish. Not only does this institute boast world-renowned faculty, but it also caters to a student population that can only become more knowledgeable with an enhanced understanding of where research fits into the national character.
The 1999 budget does show a slight increase in research and development funding, but research is important and scientific development should be strongly encouraged and supported by the government. It is also important that scientists develop a stronger political voice. Only with increased lobbying efforts can the research community gain the respect and attention it deserves. In addition, the government should not determine the allocation of funds based on specific goals, as research projects do not always achieve their intended aim, but yield results that are useful all the same. The federal government should acknowledge the importance of scientific research for the betterment of society.