Physics and the nation in a crystal ball

THE UNITED STATES appears obsessed with self‐doubt concerning its ability to solve its problems in a manner consistent with its self‐image. This doubt flourishes despite a revolution of far‐reaching social legislation that embodies at every hand the intention to apply the power of scientific research to the solution of our problems; many of the alienated among us tend to identify our troubles with technology. They see science, and perhaps especially physics, as encouraging a mindless, mechanical approach to life that is dehumanizing our society. Yet the record shows that scientists and, I believe, particularly physicists have consistently led efforts to awaken our society to the dangers of the misuse of technology, of the arms race, of the pollution of our environment, of the choking of our transportation and the physical decay of our cities. The social conscience of the physicist is rooted in the personality of American physics. Knowing the limitations of our expertise, but sure of the soundness of our motives, we are concerned to define correctly the character of our profession and its place in the life of our society.