This would complement government programs that now tilt strongly toward high-tech production for global markets. Faculty at Ball State University, for example, have begun regional market studies and satellite-aided ecological analysis to help Indiana farmers diversify their crops, reduce the use of chemicals, and sell new products locally. Community-research centers also would counterbalance the deepening ties of universities and national laboratories to business. By consistently engaging local social issues and citizens' concerns, universities would help preserve their own capacity for independent social criticism and educate students, via internships or role modeling and volunteer work, for responsible citizenship. With time, a community research network could evolve into the decentralized, democratic core of a post-cold war national laboratory system.
Additional opportunities exist to improve decision making.
Congress either has adopted or is contemplating new tax credits for commercial research and development, business-investment credits, and government technology loans. Such programs should be conditioned, at least in part, by socially determined criteria. For example, companies might earn higher tax credits for conducting research or investing in equipment that helps advance social objectives, such as producing high-quality jobs or technologies that preserve the environment. The general public also needs a strong voice, whether as lay members of such panels or in separate advisory groups. In the short run, foundations could play a vital role in helping support the democratization of policy making.