Issue 69

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69. Government should place few, if any, restrictions on scientific research and development.
Scientific research and development is a double-edged sword for the whole society. It can provide people with more convenience and comfort but, on the other hand, it also brings out some unsatisfactory outcomes. I fundamentally agree with this statement that government should place few restrictions on scientific research and development. Moreover, it is only advisable on the premise that the researches will not cause serious social and ethical controversies.
Scientific research and development is of great importance to any nation, its positive effect can contribute to a better life and a more developed country. Many technological developments during the last century have helped reduce human suffering. Consider, for instance, technology that enables computers to map Earth’s geographical features from outer space. This technology allows us to locate lands that can be cultivated for feeding. Additionally, the 20th century technological innovation has enhanced the overall standard of comfort level of developed nations. The advent of steel production and assembly-line manufacturing created countless jobs, stimulated economic growth, and supplied a plethora of innovative conveniences.
However, scientific research and development’s negative effect cannot be neglected. Otherwise it might lead to unsatisfactory results sometimes. For example, technological development has already brought about environmental problems. Many things these days cause pollution such as cars, air conditioners, refrigerators, factories, etc. All these things together can cause serious pollution in the society. More specifically, cars produce carbon monoxide which would cause the air to be bad, cause global warming, and would also cause acid rain.
Thus, proper restrictions placed by government on scientific research and development are necessary, without which science might be led to its negative side. Before giving scientific researchers and institutions financial or legal support, the government should investigate their researches carefully. The government should appraise not only the researches’ value but also their influence, since the government has the responsibility to ensure people’s safety and the society’s stability. For example, a research of dangerous bio-chemical weapon should not be allowed by the government, it should be forbidden when the plan is submitted. With proper restriction, scientific research will not deviate from the normal way.
Admittedly, even the restrictions placed by government on scientific research and development are necessary and effective, scholars and researchers should be given enough freedom to do their research. Once a research is ensured safe and valuable after government’s investigation, the government should not meddle in the process of the research, otherwise the government might be the burden of the development of science. A research will make great progress only when it is free from limitation. Thus, the examination process should be paid serious attention, after which researchers and institutions should be authorized with sufficient freedom.
To sum up, it is quite reasonable that government should place few restrictions on scientific research and development. However, there is a qualification that a research should be carefully investigated first by government to ensure its safety and feasibility.