Question

Very few elected officials in America have professional training in science or technology. Does this inhibit the effective governance of science and technology?

Do you think that the American government would be substantially different if most senators and congresspersons previously worked and scientists or engineers instead of lawyers, as is the case today?

Should it be a requirement to serve on science and technology committees?

Find an example of a piece of legislation or political movement that was wrongly founded on the misunderstanding of basic science and technology. Give a brief background. Should this movement/bill been supported or unsupported?

How will this continue to affect our country’s rank in science and technological development in the future, should this model of governance continue?

Answer 1

Very few elected officials in America have professional training in science or technology. This does not mean
that the governance will be weak reason being that they are being assisted by a team of individuals who excel in
technology and have the required expertise. So this does not inhibit the effective governance of science and
technology. The American government would be substantially different if most senators and congresspersons
previously worked as scientists or engineers instead of as lawyers, as is the case today as it would have a better
approach towards technology but then may be social issues would be ignored.