Science Next: Innovation for the Common Good from the Center for American Progress

Bioethics professor Moreno (Mind Wars: Brain Research and National Defense) and science reporter Weiss, both of the Center for American Progress, have compiled a compact volume exploring the status and future of many hot topics in science and public policy today, which should leave readers appalled at the past eight years and hopeful for the next. Despite subsidized Big Oil, infrastructure collapse, food inspection system failures and ever worsening wildfires, this volume brings hope into focus with reports of innovation that will enhance lives, from caregivers to those running out of fresh water, from No Child Left Behind to university research. Concise, informative contributions include internet co-creator Vinton Cerf on why the U.S. should respond to climate change like it did to Sputnik, and CAP senior fellow Rick Weiss proclaiming bluntly that ""federal tax dollars should not be supporting schools that persist in teaching myths in science classes."" There's also numerous recommendations from CAP's 2008 National Innovation Agenda for enhancing the utility, visibility and ""sexiness"" of science in the U.S.