Argues that both science and society will be better served if the scientific community recognizes that it must assume a strong, coherent negotiating stance in its relationship with government as it did 40 years ago. Defense of the peer review principle is essential to the achievement of this stance. (JN)

Examines the gap between American and Soviet science, tracing the gap to overcentralization, an aversion to risk, and emphasis on theory at the expense of application. Indicates that Soviet leaders are aware of some of the problems but that barriers to reform remain strong and prospects for real change are limited. (JN)

The Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) compared mathematics and science scores across 41 countries. American students performed well in science and mathematics in the fourth grade but fell behind their international peers by the eighth grade. Concludes that differences are due to unfocused curriculum, a static conception of…

States that science and technology research reached a new level of exposure in the U.S. government in 1997, particularly environmental science, cloning, international cooperation on the International Space Station, and information technologies. Lawmakers introduced research legislation and the House Science Committee launched a science policy…

Seven sites are designated as Department of Energy (DOE) National Environmental Research Parks and serve as irreplaceable outdoor laboratories for scientific research and education. The DOE has recommended the disposal of nearly one- quarter of the research park land holdings. Offers suggestions for developing a plan for protecting the…