Why Science Research for its own sake is so valuable in the long run

Precious Petals:  explains why targeted research is missing the point.

 Two types of science are needed in order to flourish, argues Len Fisher from the University of Bristol.

The first must be concerned with using the knowledge scientists and engineers already possess to provide solutions to problems and create new products. The other type of science - equally important - is concerned with seeking entirely new forms of knowledge.

This explaination is well worth listening to when considering policy and Science:

http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/ockhamsrazor/len-fisher-precious-petals-targeted-research/6518060