Quote:
Originally Posted by Makarov
Sorry, I misunderstood what you were suggesting.
I must admit that I wasn't very familiar with recent investments in university research. I just finished reading a rather disapproving review of the latest funding in Macleans (will link it when I am off my phone and in front of my computer.
Anyway, in my (admittedly shallow) understanding, it sounds like, at best, the Harper government has traded good, evidence-based public policy for subsidies for certain research universities (that pales in comparison to recent cuts to their actual funding) and certain industries (notably the energy industry).
Not sure that looks any better for Harper (maybe even worse).
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Clearly, from a policy standpoint, the position is worse.
From a purely scientific standpoint, I can't see how it isn't better.
Groundbreaking advancements in treating/eliminating disease and raising standards of care comes from 'evil' Big Pharma, who invest 100's of millions with the prospect of making billions.
I'd bet the 'evil' Monsanto has done more to potentially create science based solutions, through profit based research, that might go some way to solving global hunger via GMO's than the last 100 years of combined global government research.
TL;DR: Most breakthroughs in science now come about as a result of for profit research.