Science and Technology in Foreign Policy

摘要

This is a time when the constructive power of science and technology (S&T) can propel humankind to new levels of global well-being, or when their destructive power could bring an era of darkness and suffering. Although decisions by governments and intergovernmental organizations are fundamentally political processes, in a technology-driven world, S&T advice is needed for those political decisions. The S&T advisor, the advisory committee of experts, a select panel, or whatever the unit is must provide the best possible scientific counsel to the political de-cisionmaker. That means reaching consensus about the state of the science― for which there is never quite enough data―and then making clear what assumptions underlie any conclusions. Scientists and engineers can choose to go further by recommending a political course of action, but that is taking on a different role, that of lobbyist, activist, or special interest pleader. Of course, every citizen has the right to promote a political position, but one must distinguish that from the activity of providing expert scientific or technical advice. To be effective, an advisor must retain credibility as well as integrity.