Illusion of the 'Iron Man' scientist is simply that: illusion

The illusion of the lone scientist holed up in an isolated lab making profound discoveries is one that unfortunately still exists in the minds of decision makers who allocate money to research and development institutions. However, there are those who are working diligently to combat the stereotype as a recent Washington Post article points out.

The article referenced a Future Tense conference, in which several experts on research and development discussed the lack of relevant outcomes from dollars invested. In addition to attempting to combat the lone scientist illusion, experts, such as Daniel Sarewitz, co-director of ASU's Consortium for Science, Policy and Outcomes, argued that end user input is essential in the research and development process. 

The article also raised the question of the two "Ds" that come after R&D – "demonstration and development," which should be a key component when deciding research and development strategies. 

Access the entire article below.

Future Tense is a collaboration among ASU, the New America Foundation and Slate magazine that explores the ways emerging technologies affect society, policy and culture. Future Tense creates daily content to further the discourse around these topics.

Visit the How to Save America's Knowledge Enterprise event page, to view the discussions referenced in the Washington Post article.