How scientists advise the Congress

JUN 01, 1974

Formal advisory groups are few, but the legislative branch is seeking assistance through informal channels to an increasing extent.

DOI: 10.1063/1.3128634

J. Thomas Ratchford

Science and technology resulting from applications of scientific knowledge require a great deal of legislative attention. Some of the reasons for this are obvious. Readers of PHYSICS TODAY are probably aware of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 and the National Aeronautical and Space Administration Act of 1958. These laws, currently on the statute books, deal explicitly with science and technology.

This article is only available in PDF format

More about the authors

J. Thomas Ratchford, Science Consultant to the Committee on Science and Astronautics of the US House of Representatives.

Physics Today is looking for a Senior Editor. Apply Now.

Related content

Features

Article

The last crisis of US physics

At the end of the turbulent 1960s, the postwar funding boom in US physics came to a crashing halt. The lessons learned then may be helpful to today’s physicists.

October 02, 2026 02:36 PM

Features

Article

How to build long-lasting professional relationships

Interviews with 22 successful early-career physical scientists and engineers reveal that networking has been one of the most critical ways to nurture their careers.

September 30, 2026 05:46 PM

Features

Article

Navigating academia as a dual-career couple

Myriad solutions emerge in the stressful process of balancing professional ambition and personal happiness.

September 16, 2026 03:37 PM

Features

Article

The 80-year nuclear legacy in the Marshall Islands

An interview with a prominent member of the Marshallese diaspora delves into the ongoing impact of aboveground US nuclear weapons testing in the Pacific archipelago.

September 10, 2026 12:45 PM

This Content Appeared In