Such a nation may, indeed, discover new facts of nature we have not yet discovered. Our problem, therefore, is not a static one of preserving what we have. Such research alone leads to striking developments that mean leadership. Yet it is precisely in this area that we, as a Na-tion, have been weakest. We have been strong in applied science and in technology, but in the past we have relied largely on Europe for basic knowledge.
Pure research is arduous, demanding, and difficult.
It requires unusual intellectual powers. It requires extensive and specialized training. Some of the fundamental research necessary to our national interest is being undertaken by the Federal Government. The Government has, I believe, two obligations in connection with this research if we are to obtain the results we hope for. Regarding the first point, the Government is developing impressive programs in many scientific fields.