ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the constraints to establish a context for examining the structure and process of the Presidential science advisory mechanism and to consider means for improving that mechanism. Inherent conflicts and tensions, both within the Presidency and in the nature of the science advisory role, make this an extremely difficult problem. Oversight and coordination of Federal science and technology resources are fraught with special tensions because of the attempt to balance departmental individuality with the need for an integrated government program in any given area. The policy advisory function for science and technology is similar to policy advice in other areas in that it can be described as a continuum ranging from short-term, daily considerations to the analytical assessment of long-term problems. The dilemma of serving two masters—executive and legislative—has characterized the history of the science advisory mechanism since the late 1950s.
