Losing the Edge in Science: The Augustine Report Revisited - 10/3/07

Norman Augustine
Chair and CEO of Lockheed Martin Corporation (retired)

The United States has begun to recognize that it must maintain a competitive edge when it comes to jobs and education. On August 9, 2007, President George Bush signed into law “The America COMPETES Act;” “COMPETES” stands for "Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education and Science." The bill is a result of recommendations made in a 2005 report from the National Academies called "Rising Above the Gathering Storm." Mr. Augustine was the lead author of this report.

Mr. Augustine discusses how the standard of living that most Americans have come to enjoy is highly dependent upon their having quality jobs available. The ability to create quality jobs has become increasingly dependent upon America’s ability to maintain a leading position in science, technology, and innovation. The government’s share of investment in R&D has declined in recent decades, while business’ share of investment has increased; however, business has generally focused on short-term pursuits rather than long-term research. The consequence is that the nation’s superiority in research, which is the basis of most innovation, is highly dependent on government financial support. Although America’s present competitive position is one of considerable strength, many important trends are moving in a perilous direction. Absent significant change, America’s competitiveness - and the standard of living it supports, including health care and national security - is likely to deteriorate significantly.