Four individuals comment on a previous article (SE 539 642) which dealt with a national research strategy. These individuals are: (1) Harold T. Shapiro; (2) John Diebold; (3) Slade Gorton; and (4) Walter E. Massey. (JN)

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)

Describes the growing pressures on the American system for conducting research, including new budgetary and political constraints, damage from cumulative neglect of the research infrastructure, and the changing nature/conduct of scientific research. To cope with these challenges, a national research strategy is recommended. Various aspects of the…

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)