Basic and Applied Research: The Language of Science Policy in the Twentieth Century

The book explores the historical evolution of the basic-applied distinction in science and policymaking, tracing its roots from the nineteenth century to the present. It examines how this distinction has been challenged and transformed by scientific progress and geopolitical circumstances.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 09 June 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

The distinction between basic and applied research has played a pivotal role in twentieth-century science and policymaking, and while it has been subject to debate in recent years, it continues to permeate both scientific and public discourse. This volume adopts a transnational, diachronic approach, drawing from historical semantics, to trace the evolution of the basic-applied distinction from the nineteenth century to the present day. It explores European developments alongside comparative case studies from the United States and China, shedding light on how an older dichotomy of pure and applied science was reimagined in response to rapid scientific advancements and subsequently shaped by geopolitical circumstances post-World War II.

The nineteenth century marked a significant era in the development of the basic-applied distinction. During this time, scientific progress and technological advancements led to a growing demand for specialized knowledge and expertise. As a result, there emerged a clear distinction between research that aimed to expand the frontiers of scientific knowledge and research that aimed to apply scientific principles to solve practical problems.

In Europe, the distinction between basic and applied research was particularly pronounced. The continent had a long history of scientific excellence and was home to many renowned universities and research institutions. The German Empire, in particular, was known for its strong emphasis on basic research, with its universities funding extensive programs in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. On the other hand, the United States and the United Kingdom had a more mixed approach, with both countries investing in both basic and applied research.

However, the distinction between basic and applied research was not always clear-cut. In the early twentieth century, there was a growing debate about the role of science in society. Some scholars argued that science should be purely objective and disconnected from practical concerns, while others believed that science should be used to improve the lives of people and address social problems. This debate led to the development of new research paradigms, such as the social sciences and the applied sciences, which aimed to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical applications.

The geopolitical circumstances of the post-World War II era further shaped the distinction between basic and applied research. The Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union led to a significant investment in military research and technology, which blurred the lines between basic and applied research. In addition, the emergence of new technologies, such as nuclear weapons and space exploration, required a high level of scientific expertise and innovation, which often blurred the boundaries between basic and applied research.

Despite these challenges, the distinction between basic and applied research has remained a central feature of twentieth-century science and policymaking. The development of new research paradigms, such as the life sciences and the social sciences, has helped to clarify the relationship between scientific knowledge and practical applications. In addition, the increasing importance of interdisciplinary research has highlighted the need for researchers to collaborate across different fields and disciplines to address complex problems.

In conclusion, the distinction between basic and applied research has played a crucial role in twentieth-century science and policymaking. While it has been subject to debate and transformation over the years, it remains a fundamental aspect of scientific inquiry and public discourse. This volume provides a comprehensive exploration of the historical and contemporary development of the basic-applied distinction, shedding light on how it has been shaped by rapid scientific progress, geopolitical circumstances, and the evolving role of science in society.

ISBN-13: 9781800739383