CAMPAIGN ’88 : Science Aide Stressed

A group of 23 leading science and engineering societies has sent letters to the two presidential candidates urging them to strengthen the role of the presidential science adviser in the next Administration.

“Our nation’s hopes for a more secure, healthy, humane and prosperous society rest on continued advances in science and its applications,” the letters said. “ . . . We therefore urge that, as you seek the office of President, you devote careful thought to the White House science and technology advisory structure.”

Some scientists have complained that President Reagan’s advisers on science have been ineffective, failing to dissuade the President from what they consider bad ideas, such as the Strategic Defense Initiative. The science groups said the science adviser should be a “distinguished scientist or engineer” who has a grasp of scientific priorities and holds the respect of both the President and the science community.