ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the role of scientists in affecting decisions of the federal government that seems to be waning in the Executive branch, increasing in the Congress, and essentially non-existent in the judiciary. The future role of science and scientists in improving the work of top-level government officials will depend on two factors. The first is the belief on the part of the politicians that such advice is essential to their effective performance. Even if the desire exists, there may be need for institutional change to allow for appropriate input. Focusing on improving the organization of Congressional staff in order to get and use technical advice might lead to important institutional change, and might be easier to do. Increased staffing of the Science Advisor's Office of Science and Technology Policy would be advantageous, as would agreement to look into the problems in the Department of Defense.
