Commentary in 2000

One hundred years ago, a simple concept changed our world view forever.

The prognosis is poor for US forest ecosystems.

A Nobel Prize raises morale, but research needs money and democracy.

What future for science and technology after this autumn's US elections?

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an endangered national treasure.

One-third of US states have unsatisfactory standards for teaching evolution.

Problems with a giant laser project.

Historians of science can play an important role in US public health litigation.

Following the introduction of silicon-based integrated circuitry over three decades ago, the integration density of such circuits has doubled every 12 to 18 months: this observation is known as Moore's law. For this historical trend to continue, significant challenges need to be overcome in several key technological areas. But for many of these challenges, there are at present no known solutions.

HIV causes AIDS. Curbing the spread of this virus must remain the first step towards eliminating this devastating disease.

Our concerns about global warming have an age-old resonance.

Scientists must become more involved in controversial public debates.

Large, sophisticated databases cannot be left to chance and improvisation.

Financial incentives can be found to conserve a species threatened by trade.

Is a universal, public DNA-microarray database a realistic goal?

Science is playing an increasing part in many decisions made by the UK Parliament, and probably in other legislation. What are the implications?

Environmentally sustainable economies are unachievable without enhanced participation of the private sector. Scientists must facilitate this process.

In its recent deliberations over the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, the US Senate was not well served by the directors of the US weapons laboratories.

… from Gerbert d'Aurillac to Watson and Crick.