tags: ScienceDebate2008, AAAS, American Association for the Advancement of Science, presidential elections
Hey, everyone. I know I have told you several times that things are really gaining momentum with regards to the proposed ScienceDebate2008, an idea that originated here on ScienceBlogs by my SciBlings, Chris Mooney and Sheril Kirschenbaum, but here is yet more proof that the idea is gaining more appeal: the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) today announced that it has joined our effort to mount a presidential debate on science, technology and the economy.
"Science and engineering have driven half the nation's growth in GDP over the last half-century [emphasis mine]," said AAAS CEO Alan Leshner, "and lie at the center of many of the major policy and economic challenges the next president will face. We feel that a presidential debate on science would be helpful to America's national political dialogue."
In addition to the AAAS, the ScienceDebate2008 effort has grown to include more than 10,000 scientists, engineers, and concerned citizens and has been endorsed by a large group of scientists and engineers, including several Nobel laureates, presidents of many major American research universities, the editors of major science journals and magazines, in addition to the chair of the House Science & Technology Committee along with other congressmen and executives from Apple Computer, Google, Merck, Hyatt, and other leading companies.
Source
Press release (quotes).
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I honestly marvel at the gift we call "the Internets." It is amazing to me how it's now possible for people who share the same ideals, goals, and objectives to come together and make things happen rather than sit and wonder if there are other people out there who feel the same...
Technology is the future, however I'm not sure I care if the next prez is an academic (which of course has nothing to do with technology). In fact I'd prefer someone who could actually accomplish something and manage a successful enterprise. With that in mind, academic doesn't come to mind...
Scott, don't worry. The next president won't be an academic, because none is running.
The point of the debate, in my mind, is to evaluate the scientific mindset of the candidates, their appreciation of science and scientists, and their specific policies in this area.
exactly my point, alvaro. the purpose for ScienceDebate2008 is and always has been to give Americans an clearer understanding of each candidate's attitudes and proposed plans and policies that will affect science and technology if they get into office.
I'm surprised I can't find a Wikipedia entry on Sciencedebate 2008.