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The Macroscience Podcast
Metascience 101 - EP7: “Science and Political Legitimacy"
Oct 23, 2024
Dylan Matthews, a journalist at Vox, leads a compelling discussion with Alexander Berger, co-CEO of Open Philanthropy, and Tyler Cowen, a George Mason University professor. They dive into the critical relationship between scientific institutions and political legitimacy, exploring how funding affects public perception. The trio also tackles the complexities of research funding, the significant role of immigration in scientific progress, and the need for innovative funding strategies. Expect insights on how cultural narratives and geographic diversity shape the future of science.
01:10:03
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Quick takeaways
- Federal funding plays a critical role in driving scientific research, contributing approximately $60 to $70 billion annually through agencies like the NIH and NSF.
- The bureaucratic nature of science funding often stifles innovation, as extensive application processes lead to a culture of risk aversion among researchers.
Deep dives
The Role of Government in Scientific Funding
The majority of basic research in America is funded by the federal government, with entities like the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health contributing approximately $60 to $70 billion annually. This significant financial input highlights the government’s vital role in driving scientific innovation and research. Additionally, tax incentives such as the R&D tax credit serve to stimulate private sector investment in science, acknowledging the positive externalities that arise from research activities. In public discourse, there exists a strong association between science and government, as many scientists are seen as public sector employees, further emphasizing this relationship.
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Discover
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Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode