Re-Evaluating Big Science

Science for science’s sake on the scale that the United States has pursued for past decades is no longer affordable. It has drained the U.S. Treasury of funds that are needed to maintain a good life for those who have already achieved it and to improve the lot of those who haven’t.

Our education system is a shambles. The country’s infrastructure is crumbling. The lack of adequate means of mass transit is choking our highways and byways. Our environment is being stunted by pollution.

Part of the mounting problems is due to inept and corrupt politicians at all levels of government. Part is due to self-infliction through crime, drugs and low moral standards. But a significant part is due to misplaced priorities. Congress is right for once by reining in budgeting for sciences.

CLARENCE R. KUTSCHINSKI, Thousand Oaks