The Carnegie Commission on Science, Technology, and Government: Comments

	Science, Technology, and Government: Lessons and Opportunities
	(Return) Background The Carnegie Commission on Science, Technology, and Government (CCSTG) was established by the Carnegie Corporation of New York in 1988 and operated at a high level of activity through 1993. David A. Hamburg, the President of Carnegie Corporation during this period, established the CCSTG "to seek ways in which the branches of government can encourage and use the contributions of the national scientific community." The CCSTG operated as an independent private organization, comprised of a bipartisan group of commissioners and advisory council members including scientists, engineers, and senior government officials experienced in the application of science and technology to societal challenges. Under the leadership of CCSTG co-chairs William T. Golden and Joshua Lederberg, the CCSTG undertook a series of studies that critically evaluated a wide range of issues. As a result of these analyses, the CCSTG presented numerous recommendations for improving and advancing the linkages between science, technology, and government. The election of 1992, and changes that resulted in all three branches of the federal government, led to a demand for, and careful consideration of, many of the CCSTG's analyses and recommendations. Changes in state governments and federal-state interactions and at the international level created opportunities to consider ways to improve interactions in these arenas as well. Nearly ten years have passed since the CCSTG completed the bulk of its work. During this period new challenges and opportunities related to science, technology, and government have arisen, due to changing political, economic, and social environments as well as advances in science and technology themselves. Examples range from homeland security to stem cells and the Internet. Other challenges, such as use of scientific information in the courtroom, remain essentially unchanged during this period. What are the key public policy issues that will be influenced by science and technology in the years ahead? In turn, does US government at key levels have the policies, personnel, institutions, and organizations in place to respond effectively to these issues? What changes with regard to access to and flows of scientific and technical expertise are needed to prepare for and enable the future? How did the reports and activities of the CCSTG influence science, technology, and government over the last ten years? Would it be worthwhile to convene a second CCSTG to examine ways to strengthen the linkages between science, technology, and government? A New Convening? Preliminary to a new convening, it could be valuable to bring a representative group of former commissioners, advisory panel members, task force members, staff, and consultants together with others who have worked in this field over the last ten years and individuals likely to shape science and technology policy in the future. Key to the success of the meeting will be balancing appropriately between retrospective and prospective analysis of issues and policies. The challenge presented to the group is to articulate future science and technology policy needs in the context of the strengths and weakness of policies over the past decade, mindful always of the ultimate Commission focus on institutions and processes. Then the group should objectively evaluate the potential benefits of a future effort in the spirit of the CCSTG. (Return to Top) Posted 10.14.02