오는 11월4일은 미국의 새로운 대통령을 뽑는 선거일입니다. 최초의 흑인 대통령을 꿈꾸는 오바마와 베트남전의 영웅인 맥케인이 흑백의 대결을 펼치고 있습니다. 두 후보의 과학관에 따라서 미래 미국과 전세계의 과학에는 어떤 영향이 미칠까요. sciencedate2008이라는 사이트를 방문해보시고 두 후보의 14개 과학 관련 질문에 대한 의견을 살펴보시죠.
38,000명의 다양한 과학자, 엔지니어, 노벨수상자, 대학 총장, 기업인 등등의 사람들이 참여해서 올린 3,400여개의 질문을 14개의 큰 주제로 나누어 최종 질문을 선정하고 각 후보들이 답변을 달았습니다. 여러분이 대통령 후보라면 어떤 답안을 작성할 수 있을까요 ?
1. Innovation. Science and technology have been
responsible for half of the growth of the American economy since WWII.
But several recent reports question America’s continued leadership in
these vital areas. What policies will you support to ensure that
America remains the world leader in innovation?
2. Climate Change. The Earth’s climate is changing
and there is concern about the potentially adverse effects of these
changes on life on the planet. What is your position on the following
measures that have been proposed to address global climate change—a
cap-and-trade system, a carbon tax, increased fuel-economy standards,
or research? Are there other policies you would support?
3. Energy. Many policymakers and scientists say
energy security and sustainability are major problems facing the United
States this century. What policies would you support to meet demand for
energy while ensuring an economically and environmentally sustainable
future?
4. Education. A comparison of 15-year-olds in 30
wealthy nations found that average science scores among U.S. students
ranked 17th, while average U.S. math scores ranked 24th. What role do
you think the federal government should play in preparing K-12 students
for the science and technology driven 21st Century?
5. National Security. Science and technology are at
the core of national security like never before. What is your view of
how science and technology can best be used to ensure national security
and where should we put our focus?
6. Pandemics and Biosecurity. Some estimates suggest
that if H5N1 Avian Flu becomes a pandemic it could kill more than 300
million people. In an era of constant and rapid international travel,
what steps should the United States take to protect our population from
global pandemics or deliberate biological attacks?
7. Genetics research. The field of genetics has the
potential to improve human health and nutrition, but many people are
concerned about the effects of genetic modification both in humans and
in agriculture. What is the right policy balance between the benefits
of genetic advances and their potential risks?
8. Stem cells. Stem cell research advocates say it
may successfully lead to treatments for many chronic diseases and
injuries, saving lives, but opponents argue that using embryos as a
source for stem cells destroys human life. What is your position on
government regulation and funding of stem cell research?
9. Ocean Health. Scientists estimate that some 75
percent of the world’s fisheries are in serious decline and habitats
around the world like coral reefs are seriously threatened. What steps,
if any, should the United States take during your presidency to protect
ocean health?
10. Water. Thirty-nine states expect some level of
water shortage over the next decade, and scientific studies suggest
that a majority of our water resources are at risk. What policies
would you support to meet demand for water resources?
11. Space. The study of Earth from space can yield
important information about climate change; focus on the cosmos can
advance our understanding of the universe; and manned space travel can
help us inspire new generations of youth to go into science. Can we
afford all of them? How would you prioritize space in your
administration?
12. Scientific Integrity. Many government scientists
report political interference in their job. Is it acceptable for
elected officials to hold back or alter scientific reports if they
conflict with their own views, and how will you balance scientific
information with politics and personal beliefs in your decision-making?
13. Research. For many years, Congress has recognized the
importance of science and engineering research to realizing our
national goals. Given that the next Congress will likely face spending
constraints, what priority would you give to investment in basic
research in upcoming budgets?
14. Health. Americans are increasingly concerned with the cost,
quality and availability of health care. How do you see science,
research and technology contributing to improved health and quality of
life?
