- #1
Kholdstare
- 388
- 1
Will the recent economic pressure in the US result in funding cuts of the research in the US universities? Let's debate.
Fiscal cliff, debt ceiling and research funding
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the potential impact of recent economic pressures in the US on research funding at universities, particularly in relation to government expenditures and specific funding sources like NASA and the Department of Defense. Participants explore the implications of budget cuts and the prioritization of funding in various sectors.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Exploratory
Main Points Raised
- Some participants suggest that funding cuts to research in US universities are likely, but the Department of Defense funding may remain stable despite being viewed as wasteful.
- There is a concern that cuts will disproportionately affect social programs like Medicare and Medicaid rather than research funding.
- A leaked memo from NASA is mentioned, indicating potential negative impacts on NASA-funded Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs), though the implications for broader research funding remain unclear.
- One participant argues that cuts will not affect essential research funding, suggesting that only "useless" expenditures will be targeted.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the likelihood and nature of funding cuts, with no consensus on whether research funding will be significantly affected or which areas will face cuts. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the overall impact on research funding.
Contextual Notes
Participants rely on assumptions about government priorities and the accuracy of leaked information, which may not be fully substantiated. The discussion reflects varying perspectives on the implications of economic pressures without definitive conclusions.