A conversation to bring a New Zealand perspective on the state of pure (basic) research around the world. This discussion, along with similar discussion by the other 13 Aspen Partners, will contribute to the final report by Aspen Institute’s Science & Society Program and a large event will be held in Paris, possibly at the UNESCO headquarters, in order to produce documents and initiatives on a world scale.

Co-chaired by Aaron Mertz, Director of Aspen Institute’s Science & Society Program and Aspen Institute New Zealand’s CEO, Christine Maiden Sharp.

This event will be held virtually and participation is by invitation. For further information contact us below.

Background on the Project 

Pure science is the only guarantee of a better future for the humanity. The technology that we will have tomorrow for solving the problems we are facing, such as pandemics, climate change, shortage of clean energy, degenerative illnesses, depends from how much we invest on pure science today.
 
Unfortunately, the public opinion does not praise very much pure science, and very often does not understand its importance. There is also much diffidence for pure science in a relevant part of the population, even in developed countries.
 
The result is that investments in pure science in most countries are declining, not increasing.
 
The Aspen Institute, since its origins, has given a great attention to the issue of science. Science is making material and moral progress possible. It unifies different countries and makes a dialogue possible even between cultures that for many other aspects are deeply separated.
 
Now there are 14 Aspen Institutes in the world. Together they represent a formidable network, based on common values, and with a great capacity to influence the public opinions of the several countries.
 
They have decided to carry forward a common program in favor of pure science.

Each Aspen will organize events that will try to give an answer to issues such as:

               • How is the state of pure science in our country?

               • How the public opinion consider pure science?

               • How can we promote the growth of pure science in our country?

               • How can we make pure science in our county more inclusive of any kind of differences?

The several results of these events will be exchanged amongst the Aspen Institutes, in order to learn ideas and proposals from each other. Finally, a large event will be held in Paris, possibly at the UNESCO headquarters, in order to produce documents and initiatives on a world scale.

Visit the Institute Science & Society Program website here.