Physics and engineering in a free society: 1 Education

I have been uncertain about the position I should take in our discussion this afternoon. The American Institute of Physics has sponsored this gathering. My persuasive friends, Dr. Suits and Dr. Hutchisson, who induced me to take part, have long been articulate spokesmen for the role of physics in modern engineering. In the light of my own interests, they might reasonably anticipate that I would support that cause. However, I have felt increasingly of late that the need to interpret the engineer to the physicist is even more pressing. This meeting today with our Corporate Associates seems an appropriate occasion to begin. The central theme of our conference is, in fact, the question as to how physics and engineering each may contribute best to the advancement of a free society. At one time or another, I have had a serious professional interest in both fields. But I shall speak to you today from the vantage point of one whose deepest concern for a number of years has been with education.

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