Association for Computing Machinery
US Public Policy Office (USACM)

 

Principles for U.S. Science Policy

Spring 1998

1. Promote United States Leadership in Computer Science and Engineering

The United States has been the undisputed leader in computer science and engineering for many years. This leadership, which was brought about in large measure by significant government funding of research and development, has been an economic boon to the country. Advances in computer science and technology have resulted in quality of life, social, and competitive benefits as well, such as computer controlled medical devices, computer aids for people with disabilities, and computer tools for designers of complex objects such as airplanes and buildings. The Internet has also increased the amount of information available to citizens and their ability to communicate with each other.

Since most companies lack the resources to support research that is not tied to product development, there is an ongoing need for federal funding of basic research, and other research not motivated by immediate commercial prospects. For example, the Internet would not have come into existence without federal funding of applied research projects. A sound US science policy should recognize the continued importance of federally funded research to enable future innovation and to ensure the ongoing leadership of the US in science and engineering.

2. Support Academic Computer Science and Engineering

Universities serve a dual role for science. They train the researchers and the developers who are the lifeblood of the computer industry, and they nurture research projects that have sometimes been sources of explosive entrepreneurial growth. Thus, it is in the national interest to continue support of academic research. A primary goal of US science policy should be to keep both graduate and undergraduate computer science and engineering programs healthy and thriving.

3. Encourage K-12 Science Education

Students well trained in basic science and computing are vital to university education and research. Providing Internet access in schools is an essential first step. Through the Internet, students can learn about different cultures by interacting with school children around the world. They can visit NASA's web site to see live pictures of the stars, planets, and Earth's moon. With the proper tools, schools can utilize distance learning to offer a wider variety of courses.

There is also a need for good equipment, quality software, teaching training, ongoing support, and continuing evaluation to refine novel teaching methods. A sound US science policy will recognize the potential of information technologies to stimulate an early interest in science in K-12 students.

4. Promote Discussion of Ethical, Legal and Social Issues

US science policy should support systematic research and discussion of the ethical, legal, and social implications of new technologies and should encourage the development of codes of conduct consistent with the ethical and social principles that evolve from these discussions. The Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues (ELSI) program of the Human Genome Project which reserves five percent of the Project's federal funding for the exploration of these issues is a model that should be applied to other scientific endeavors. The development of new technologies will continue to raise important social questions. A comprehensive science policy should promote early discussion of potentially difficult issues and the development of a systematic base of research to aid in clarifying and resolving these issues.

5. Promote International Collaborations

Science is an international endeavor. US science policy should recognize the global nature of scientific innovation by encouraging international collaborations. US science policy should also pursue international cooperation regarding policies that regulate the availability and use of the digital medium. These are exciting new opportunities for the development of creative solutions to common problems.

6. Maintain a Balanced Approach to Intellectual Property Protection

Intellectual property policies must be balanced to take into consideration the interests of many different groups. Such policies should ensure the continued vibrancy of not-for-profit publishers, students, researchers, and the general public, even as they seek to protect commercial investments. Sensible legislative proposals should promote the "Progress of Science and the Useful Arts" by allowing exemptions for public-good uses in libraries, universities, and laboratories. Scientists use the Internet to exchange information with their colleagues and to share data. National policy should encourage the cost-effective exchange of scientific information, both on and off the Internet. National policies should also promote the research and development of new tools to protect and exchange digital information.

7. Involve Scientists in Policy Making

Computer scientists and engineers are eager to work with policy makers on policies relating to computer science and technology. There is a developing awareness of problems, for example relating to the protection of intellectual property, that have been created by technology. Policy makers should continue to involve the science and technology community in discussions on science policy and consult scientists on potential technological approaches to problems. A partnership between scientists and policy makers will encourage both good policy and good science.