Science. The endless frontier

Science. The endless frontier is a short report  published in July 1945 that marks the beginning of modern science policy.   Despite being over 65 years old, its arguments still have relevance  today.   Commissioned by President Franklin D Roosevelt and prepared  by Vannevar Bush, an electrical engineer who had played an important role in  directing US government research during World War II, the report presented a  new plan for science.   It argued that progress in science is  essential to improve public welfare; that science is a proper concern of  government; and that freedom of inquiry is essential if science is to realise  the benefits of which it is capable. 

Click here to download or view  Science. The Endless  Frontier -   http://www.nsf.gov/od/lpa/nsf50/vbush1945.htm