30 Issues Discussion: Medical and Scientific Research

Today Kara Miller looks at how much support the government should offer for medical and scientific research. Often, that support comes in the form of money — lots of money.

As Congress debates the impending "fiscal cliff," myriad programs are on the chopping block. On the one hand, taxpayers demand high return on the use of their tax dollars. On the other hand, medical and scientific research has yielded breakthrough vaccines, energy sources and new ways to communicate.

We look at both sides of the argument as part of our Election 2012 series, 30 Issues in 30 Days.

What do you think — is there room in our budget for cutting-edge research? Or should we look to private funding? Do tough times necessitate tough budget decisions?

Guests:

• Art Caplan, head of the Division of Medical Ethics, NYU Langone Medical Center.
• Steve Goldstein, Provost and professor of biochemistry, Brandeis University.

More:

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