Science In America

Much of America's success is due to its utilization of science. Early in the development of the country, many high class citizens were interested in scientific studies. In the 19th Century, scientific study changed from a hobby for the upper class to a practical occupation for middle class. Indeed, many middle class individuals began developing technologies to assist them in their every day labor. Such applied scientist received no formal training and had no standard scientific system. Still, the spirit of innovation was clear. It was commonly accepted that scientific innovations were necessary to promote the growth of prosperity. This idea was also accepted by the federal government, which funded select scientific organizations and education reform that promoted formal training in science. Science began to become more professionalized. In the mid 1800s, more organized scientific communities were being formed, scientific standards were being developed, and scientific education was being further expanded. Informing the public of scientific progress became a priority as well. New publications, such as Scientific American, were created to inform the public of such advancement and became fairly popular. It was not until the beginning of the 20th century that pure sciences, such as the studies of chemistry and theoretical physics, started to take off. America soon became a leader in these expanding studies of science as well as the applied sciences. The government continued to support this scientific development, and even hired theoretical physicists to create the atomic bomb which effectively ended WWII.This government support in matters relating to national security continued through the cold war and continues today. During the 1970s, however, there was a lot of government funding in life sciences. Even in this recent history, the federal government saw the importance in promoting science. Last night, Barack Obama spoke of further supporting scientific research. Addressing his fellow politicians, he stated, "we need to encourage American innovation." I concur, innovation is more than just a luxury, it is a necessity. Only by remaining on the forefront of scientific research and development can America remain a Superpower, for it was by pushing the limits of technology that America became the mighty nation it is today.

Science in America." American History. ABC-CLIO, 2010. Web. 28 Jan. 2010.
< http://www.americanhistory.abc-clio.com >.