Beyond Sputnik: U.S. Science Policy in the Twenty-first Century

This book presents a timely introduction to all facets of U.S. national science policy. Science and technology are responsible for almost every advance in our modern quality of life. Yet science isn’t just about laboratories, telescopes and particle accelerators. Public policy exerts a huge impact on how the scientific community conducts its work.
Beyond Sputnik
is a comprehensive survey of the field for use as an introductory textbook in courses and a reference guide for legislators, scientists, journalists, and advocates seeking to understand the science policy-making process. Detailed case studies - on topics from cloning and stem cell research to homeland security and science education - offer readers the opportunity to study real instances of policymaking at work. Authors and experts Homer A. Neal, Tobin L. Smith, and Jennifer B. McCormick propose practical ways to implement sound public policy in science and technology and highlight how these policies will guide the results of scientific discovery for years to come.