As reported by Slashdot, a questionnaire sent to the presidential candidates and all Congressional candidates by Scientists and Engineers for America (SEA) has been answered by Democratic nominee Barack Obama.
Obama takes time to answer science questions. Image: Jurvetson/Flickr.
From a science and technology point of view, the replies make for interesting reading with Obama promising that he will support innovative research in the United States.
"Ensuring that the U.S. continues to lead the world in science and technology will be a central priority for my administration," he answered.
"Our talent for innovation is still the envy of the world, but we face unprecedented challenges that demand new approaches. For example, the U.S. annually imports $53 billion more in advanced technology products than we export."
Citing China as the United States' chief rival in innovative technology, he continued:
"China is now the world’s number one high technology exporter. This competitive situation may only worsen over time because the number of U.S. students pursuing technical careers is declining. The U.S. ranks 17th among developed nations in the proportion of college students receiving degrees in science or engineering; we were in third place thirty years ago."
The Illinois Senator also acknowledged the problem concerning climate change and said America must assume the leadership role on climate change, a role that was lost during the Bush years.
"First, the U.S. must get off the sidelines and take long-overdue action here at home to reduce our own greenhouse gas emissions," he said. "We must also take a leadership role in designing technologies that allow us to enjoy a growing, prosperous economy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050."
"With the right incentives, I'm convinced that American ingenuity can do this," insisted Senator Obama, "and in the process make American businesses more productive, create jobs, and make America’s buildings and vehicles safer and more attractive."
He also issued strong support for controversial stem cell research and promised a "robust and balanced" civilian space programme.
For the full interview see the SEA Web site here.
Republican nominee, Senator John McCain, has yet to reply to the questionnaire.
Interested in a more interactive TTH? Join our Facebook Group Want regular updates from The Tech Herald? Follow us on Twitter
Advertising
Comment on this Story