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National Medal of Science and Technology Awards 11/13/90 [OA 8318]
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National Medal of Science and Technology Awards 11/13/90 [OA 8318]
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This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
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Speechwriting, White House Office of
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Speech File Backup Files
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OA/ID Number:
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Folder Title:
National Medal of Science and Technology Awards 11/13/90 [OA 8318]
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26
21
1
4
NATIONAL MEDAL OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY I THE EAST ROOM
TUESDAY, NOV. 13, 1990 \ 2:00 P.M.
THANK YOU. WE'RE PLEASED TO SEE SECRETARY
MOSBACHER, DR. BROMLEY, AND ADMIRAL TRULY, HERE TO HELP
US OUT. AND WE ESPECIALLY WANT TO GREET OUR HONORED
GUESTS, THIS EXTRAORDINARY GATHERING OF SCIENTIFIC AND
TECHNOLOGICAL GENIUS. WELCOME TO THE WHITE HOUSE --
AND WELCOME TO THE PRESENTATION OF THE 1990 NATIONAL
MEDALS OF SCIENCE AND THE NATIONAL MEDALS OF
TECHNOLOGY.
- 2 -
((THE TIMING OF THESE AWARDS IS FORTUITOUS. A YEAR
AGO THIS WEEK, BARBARA AND I AWARDED MEDALS-TO SOME OF
THE ARTISTIC GIANTS OF OUR TIME -- ALFRED EISENSTAEDT,
DIZZY GILLESPIE, AND JOHN UPDIKE, AMONG OTHERS. 11
AND WITH ALL THAT ASSEMBLED TALENT, GUESS WHAT LED THE
EVENING NEWS? 11 THE ROSE GARDEN PRESENTATION OF THE
NATIONAL TURKEY. III So YOU'RE IN LUCK -- THIS YEAR
THE TURKEY DOESN'T ARRIVE UNTIL THURSDAY!)) III
- 3 -
THIS GATHERING MARKS A PROUD MOMENT FOR ME -- JUST
AS IT WAS WHEN THIS YEAR'S NOBEL PRIZES WERE ANNOUNCED,
AND IT-TURNED OUT THAT EIGHT OF THE NINE WINNERS IN
SCIENCE AND ECONOMICS WERE BORN IN THE U.S.A. IT IS A
TRIBUTE TO AMERICA'S FRONTIER SPIRIT, AND TO OUR
NATION'S STEADFAST RESOLVE AND SENSE OF THE FUTURE.
FOR WHEN IT COMES TO LEADERSHIP IN SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY -- BEST IN AMERICA MEANS BEST IN THE WORLD.
- 4 -
AMERICA'S TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE HAS LONG BEEN
NURTURED BY A TRADITION OF FREE INQUIRY -- AIMED AT THE
SIMPLE GOAL OF BETTER UNDERSTANDING OURSELVES AND OUR
WORLD. IN THE 1945 REPORT THAT LED TO THE FOUNDING OF
THE N.S.F., THE NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION, VANNEVAR
BUSH WROTE THAT: "As LONG AS SCIENTISTS ARE FREE TO
PURSUE THE TRUTH WHEREVER IT MAY LEAD, THERE WILL BE A
FLOW OF NEW SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE To THOSE WHO CAN APPLY
IT TO PRACTICAL PROBLEMS."
- 5 -
AND SO IT IS TODAY. MORE AND MORE, NEARLY EVERY
PRODUCT, FROM ELECTRONICS TO AGRICULTURE, INCORPORATES
THE LATEST IN TECHNOLOGY. AND MORE AND MORE, OUR
NATION DEPENDS ON BASIC SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH TO SPUR
ECONOMIC GROWTH, LONGER AND HEALTHIER LIVES, A MORE
SECURE WORLD, AND A SAFER ENVIRONMENT.
TODAY, OUR GOVERNMENT MUST HELP CARRY THAT RESEARCH
FORWARD, AND CONTRIBUTE TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF GENERIC
TECHNOLOGIES THAT BUILD ON BASIC DISCOVERIES.
- 6 -
IF AMERICA IS TO MAINTAIN AND STRENGTHEN OUR
COMPETITIVE POSITION, WE MUST CONTINUE NOT ONLY TO
CREATE NEW TECHNOLOGIES, BUT LEARN TO MORE EFFECTIVELY
TRANSLATE THOSE TECHNOLOGIES INTO COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS.
IN THIS WAY, WE CAN HELP LEVERAGE THE R & D OF THE
PRIVATE SECTOR -- HELPING WHOLE INDUSTRIES ADVANCE IN
AN INCREASINGLY COMPETITIVE GLOBAL MARKET.
THE BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS OUR ADMINISTRATION'S
COMMITMENT TO SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY.
- 7 -
WE WON DOUBLE-DIGIT INCREASES FOR BOTH NASA AND THE
N.S.F., AND EXPANDED FUNDS TO INVESTIGATE GLOBAL
CLIMATE CHANGE. WE REMAIN COMMITTED TO DOING EVEN
MORE: DOUBLING THE N.S.F. BUDGET OVER FIVE YEARS, AND
EXTENDING THE TAX CREDIT FOR R&E -- RESEARCH AND
EXPERIMENTATION.
- 8 -
AND WE'RE GOING TO KEEP RAISING AMERICA'S SIGHTS:
SPACE STATION FREEDOM WILL GIVE US A PERMANENT PRESENCE
IN EARTH ORBIT, AND THE SPACE EXPLORATION INITIATIVE
WILL TAKE US TO THE MOON AND MARS AND BEYOND -- BACK TO
SPACE, BACK TO THE FUTURE, AND THIS TIME -- BACK TO
STAY. III
30 YEARS FROM NOW, WHEN THE NOBEL PRIZES ARE
ANNOUNCED -- I WANT AMERICA TO BE WELL-REPRESENTED.
- 9 -
AND 30 YEARS FROM NOW, WHEN THE MEDALS OF SCIENCE AND
OF TECHNOLOGY ARE BESTOWED -- I WANT TO SEE AMERICA
GRACED BY A GROUP AS ACCOMPLISHED AS THAT HERE TODAY.
MANY OF TODAY'S HONOREES SERVE AS PRIME EXAMPLES OF
HOW WE CAN EFFECTIVELY TRANSLATE BASIC SCIENCE INTO
COMMERCIAL TECHNOLOGY. I THINK OF MILLIE DRESSELHAUS,
ARGUABLY THE MOST PROMINENT WOMAN PHYSICIST AND
ENGINEER OF HER GENERATION, WHOSE WORK HELPED TO
REVOLUTIONIZE SEMI-CONDUCTORS.
- 10 -
OR ALLAN CORMACK, WHOSE PIONEERING EFFORTS EARNED HIM A
NOBEL PRIZE -- AND MADE "CAT-SCANS" A HOUSEHOLD WORD.
AND SCHOLARS AS DIVERSE AS BOSTON'S BARUJ BENACERRAF
-- OR SEATTLE'S DONNALL THOMAS -- WHOSE CONTRIBUTIONS
TO IMMUNOLOGY MAY LEAD TO NEW ANSWERS IN OUR BATTLE
AGAINST CANCER AND AIDS. SCIENTISTS LIKE YOU HAVE
HELPED AMERICA TO UNDERSTAND THAT AIDS IS A DISEASE --
NOT A DISGRACE.
- 11 -
AND SCIENTISTS LIKE YOU HAVE HELPED AMERICA TO
APPRECIATE OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO THOSE WHO ARE LIVING
WITH HIV AND AIDS: THEY DESERVE OUR COMPASSION. THEY
DESERVE OUR CARE. AND THEY DESERVE MORE THAN A
CHANCE -- THEY DESERVE A CURE. III
ANOTHER LEGACY OF THESE PRESTIGIOUS MEDALS AND THE
WORK THEY HONOR MUST BE THE CULTIVATION OF EXCELLENCE
IN SCIENCE AND MATH IN CLASSROOMS ACROSS AMERICA.
- 12 -
THE NATIONAL SCIENCE SCHOLARS PROGRAM WE PROPOSED SOON
AFTER TAKING OFFICE HAS NOW BEEN ENACTED -- AND WILL
ENCOURAGE BUDDING SCHOLARS OF TODAY TO BECOME THE
SCIENTISTS OF TOMORROW. GUIDING OUR EFFORTS IS AN
AMBITIOUS BUT CRITICAL GOAL FOR THIS DECADE: "By THE
YEAR 2000, U.S. STUDENTS WILL BE FIRST IN THE WORLD IN
SCIENCE AND MATH."
- 13 -
THIS WEEK IS EDUCATION WEEK, AND ITS THEME IS
"EDUCATING EVERYONE TAKES EVERYONE" -- A FITTING MOTTO
FOR THE CHALLENGES THAT LIE AHEAD. IF WE ARE TRULY TO
REMAIN A WORLD LEADER IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, THEN
WE MUST ACHIEVE A RENAISSANCE OF QUALITY IN OUR SCHOOLS
-- WE MUST TAP THE TALENT, ENERGY, AND COMMITMENT OF
ALL OUR FAMILIES, BUSINESSES, AND UNIVERSITIES.
- 14 -
THE PEOPLE WE HONOR TODAY ARE AMERICAN
TRAILBLAZERS, REAL-LIFE PIONEERS WHO PRESSED THE VERY
LIMITS OF THEIR FIELDS. You HAVE DISTINGUISHED NOT
ONLY YOURSELVES -- BUT ALSO YOUR NATION. AND THAT'S
WHY AMERICA CONTINUES TO NEED AND WANT -- AND
APPRECIATE -- YOUR CREATIVITY, YOUR GENIUS AND YOUR
DIVERSITY. THANK YOU. CONGRATULATIONS. AND GOD BLESS
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
#
#
#
McNally/Dooley
Nov. 7, 1990
Draft One (B:SCIENCE)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL MEDAL OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
THE EAST ROOM
TUESDAY, NOV. 13, 1990, : .M.
Thank you We're pleased to see Secretary Mosbacher,
Wathins
Secretary Sullivan, and Dr. Bromley here to help us out. And we
especially want to greet our honored guests, this extraordinary
gathering of scientific and technological genius.
Welcome to the White House -- and welcome to the presenta-
tion of the 1990 National Medals of Science and Technology. III
((The timing of these awards is fortuitous. A year ago this
week, Barbara and I awarded medals to some of the artistic giants
of our time -- Alfred Eisenstaedt, Dizzy Gillespie, and John
Updike, among others. \\ And with all that assembled talent,
guess what led the evening news? 11 The Rose Garden presenta-
tion of the National Turkey. III So you're in luck -- this year
the Turkey doesn't arrive until Thursday!)) III
This gathering marks a proud moment for me -- just as it was
when this year's Nobel Prizes were announced, and it turned out
that eight of the nine winners in science and economics were born
in the U.S.A. It is a tribute to America's frontier spirit, and
to our Nation's steadfast resolve and sense of the future. For
when it comes to science and technology -- best in America means
best in the world. III
America's tradition of excellence has long been nurtured by
a tradition of free inquiry --- aimed at the simple goal of better
understanding of ourselves and our world. In the 1945 report
2
that led to the founding of the N.S.F., the National Science
Foundation, Vannevar Bush wrote that: "As long as scientists are
free to pursue the truth wherever it may lead, there will be a
flow of new scientific knowledge to those who can apply it to
practical problems."
And so it is today. More and more, the country depends on
basic scientific research to spur economic growth, longer and
healthier lives, a more secure world, and a safer environment.
And our government must help carry that research forward, and
contribute to the development of technologies that build on basic
discoveries. In this way, we can help leverage the R & D of the
private sector -- helping whole industries advance in an
increasingly competitive global marketplace.
The new budget highlights our Administration's commitment to
science and technology. We won double-digit increases for both
NASA and the N.S.F., and expanded funds to investigate global
climate change. We remain committed to doing even more:
Doubling the N.S.F. over five years, and making permanent the tax
credit for R & E -- research and experimentation. And we're
going to keep raising America's sights: NASA's Space Exploration
Initiative will take us to the Moon and Mars and beyond -- back
to space, back to the future, and this time -- back to stay. III
So in the next budget, we're going to put it to Congress
again. We're going to say: "Put our money where our future is.
Stop funding pork-barrel projects in your home districts and let
our scientists and engineers go to work for America." III
3
30 years from now, when the Nobel Prizes are announced -- I
want America to be well-represented. And 30 years from now, when
the Medals of Science and Technology are bestowed, I want America
to be graced by a group as accomplished as those here today.
I think of Mildred Dresselhaus, arguably the most prominent
woman physicist and engineer of her generation, whose work helped
to revolutionize semi-conductors. Or Allan Cormack, whose
pioneering efforts earned him a Nobel Prize -- and made "CAT-
scans" a household word. And scholars as diverse as Boston's
another Nobel laurate
Baruj Benacerraf -- or Seattle's Donnall Thomas whose
contributions to immunology may lead to new answers in our battle
against cancer and AIDS. Scientists like you have helped America
to understand that AIDS is a disease -- not a disgrace. And
somewhere out there -- along with the gratitude of planet Earth
-- one of these Medals is waiting for the man or woman who
discovers the cure to this deadly scourge. III
Another legacy of this prestigious medal and the work it
honors must be the cultivation of excellence in science and math
in classrooms across America. The National Science Scholars
program we proposed soon after taking office has now been enacted
-- and will encourage budding scholars of today to become the
scientists of tomorrow. Guiding our efforts is an ambitious but
critical goal for this decade: "By the Year 2000, U.S. students
will be first in the world in science and math."
This week is education week, and its theme is "Educating
Everyone Takes Everyone" -- a fitting motto for the challenges
4
that lie ahead. If we truly are to achieve a renaissance of
quality in our schools, we must tap the talent, energy, and
commitment of all our families, businesses, and universities.
The people we honor today are American trailblazers, real-
life pioneers who pressed the very limits of their fields. You
have distinguished not only yourselves -- but also your Nation.
And that's why America continues to need and want -- and
appreciate -- your creativity, your genius and your diversity.
Thank you. Congratulations. And God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
Adm. watkins Truly.Staffed Truly Castle-Del. 3:00 for pm
McNally/Dooley
Nov. 7, 1990
Draft Two (B:SCIENCE)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
NATIONAL MEDAL OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
1
THE EAST ROOM
X Cathy
Fenton
TUESDAY, NOV. 13, 1990, 2:00P M.
Thank you. We're pleased to see Secretary Mosbacher,
Jackie
Secretary Sullivan, and Dr. Bromley here to help us out. And we
Clawson
especially want to greet our honored guests, this extraordinary
2870
gathering of scientific and technological genius.
Welcome to the White House -- and welcome to the presenta-
tion of the 1990 National Medals of Science and Technology. III
( (The timing of these awards is fortuitous. A year ago this
week, Barbara and I awarded medals to some of the artistic giants
of our time -- Alfred Eisenstaedt, Dizzy Gillespie, and John
Updike, among others. 11 And with all that assembled talent,
guess what led the evening news? 11 The Rose Garden presenta-
tion of the National Turkey. III So you're in luck -- this year
the Turkey doesn't arrive until Thursday!))
This gathering marks a proud moment for me -- just as it was
when this year's Nobel Prizes were announced, and it turned out
that eight of the nine winners in science and economics were born
Olson
in the U.S.A. It is a tribute to America's frontier spirit, and
Wash. Post
to our Nation's steadfast resolve and sense of the future. For
% am &
when it comes to science and technology -- best in America means
best in the world. \\\
America's tradition of excellence has long been nurtured by
a tradition of free inquiry -- aimed at the simple goal of better
Olson
understanding ourselves and our world. In the 1945 report that
2
led to the founding of the N.S.F., the National Science Founda-
tion, Vannevar Bush wrote that: "As long as scientists are free
to pursue the truth wherever it may lead, there will be a flow of
new scientific knowledge to those who can apply it to practical
problems."
And so it is today. More and more, the country depends on
basic scientific research to spur economic growth, longer and
healthier lives, a more secure world, and a safer environment.
And our government must help carry that research forward, and
contribute to the development of technologies that build on basic
discoveries. In this way, we can help leverage the R & D of the
private sector -- helping whole industries advance in an
increasingly competitive global marketplace.
The new budget highlights our Administration's commitment to
science and technology. We won double-digit increases for both
NASA and the N.S.F., and expanded funds to investigate global
climate change. We remain committed to doing even more: Doub-
ling the N.S.F. budget over five years, and making permanent the
tax credit for R & E -- research and experimentation. And we're
going to keep raising America's sights: NASA's Space Exploration
Initiative will take us to the Moon and Mars and beyond -- back
to space, back to the future, and this time -- back to stay. \\\
So in the next budget, we're going to put it to Congress
again. We're going to say: "Put our money where our future is.
Stop funding pork-barrel projects in your home districts and let
our scientists and engineers go to work for America." III
3
30 years from now, when the Nobel Prizes are announced -- I
want America to be well-represented. And 30 years from now, when
the Medals of Science and Technology are bestowed, I want America
to be graced by a group as accomplished as those here today.
I think of Mildred Dresselhaus, arguably the most prominent
woman physicist and engineer of her generation, whose work helped
to revolutionize semi-conductors. Or Allan Cormack, whose
pioneering efforts earned him a Nobel Prize -- and made "CAT-
MuMillen
scans" a household word. And scholars as diverse as Boston's
Baruj Benacerraf -- or Seattle's Donnall Thomas / whose medicine
i
this year 1990 for
contributions to immunology may lead to new answers in our battle
against cancer and AIDS. Scientists like you have helped America
to understand that AIDS is a disease - not a disgrace. And
scientists like you have helped America to appreciate our
responsibility to those who are living with HIV and AIDS: They
deserve our compassion. They deserve our care. And they deserve
more than a chance -- they deserve a cure.
Another legacy of this prestigious medal and the work it
honors must be the cultivation of excellence in science and math
in classrooms across America. The National Science Scholars
program we proposed soon after taking office has now been enacted
-- and will encourage budding scholars of today to become the
scientists of tomorrow. Guiding our efforts is an ambitious but
critical goal for this decade: "By the Year 2000, U.S. students
will be first in the world in science and math."
4
This week is Education Week, and its theme is "Educating
Everyone Takes Everyone" -- a fitting motto for the challenges
that lie ahead. If we truly are to achieve a renaissance of
quality in our schools, we must tap the talent, energy, and
commitment of all our families, businesses, and universities.
The people we honor today are American trailblazers, real-
life pioneers who pressed the very limits of their fields. You
have distinguished not only yourselves -- but also your Nation.
And that's why America continues to need and want -- and
appreciate -- your creativity, your genius and your diversity.
Thank you. Congratulations. And God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
awards
Physical Sciences
Edwin M. McMillan
Professor of Physics Emeritus
University of California
Berkeley, CA
Citation:
For his scientific achievements including the
identification of the first transuranic element
(neptunium) and the invention of the phase
stability principle incorporated in the
synchrotron.
Summary of Achievements
During 1932-1934, the field of nuclear physics was being
transformed by a succession of startling discoveries--the
neutron, positron, induced radioactivity--and the technology of
accelerators was entering a stage of rapid development.
Lawrence's Radiation Laboratory, then an adjunct to the Physics
Department with close ties to the Chemistry Department, was a
leading laboratory in nuclear physics and was the scene of
dynamic activity. The burgeoning field of nuclear physics and
the excitement at the Radiation Laboratory was a great attraction
to McMillan and he joined the small staff in 1934.
He distinguished himself immediately as an innovative and careful
experimenter with an exceptional command of the theoretical
background of nuclear physics. In an early investigation of
gamma rays from nuclear disintegrations he accomplished the first
unambiguous demonstration of the anomalous absorption of gamma
rays by the creation of electron pairs.
McMillan took a keen interest in the operation and improvement of
the cyclotron, then an almost entirely empirical art. He helped
to rationalize the understanding of cyclotrons and was
responsible for substantial improvements in ion sources, magnetic
field shaping, beam extraction, and power and control systems.
News of the discovery of fission by Hahn and Strassman in early
1939 created great excitement and stimulated a flurry of
experimental activity in the Radiation Laboratory, as it did in
many other places, to confirm and to elucidate the new process.
McMillan undertook a simple experiment--measurement of the range
of fission fragments by their penetration of a stack of foils in
contact with a thin layer of a uranium compound exposed to
neutrons from a cyclotron target. The results of the range
measurement were routine. Investigation of the residue in the
uranium layer proved to be another story.
Intrigued by the inconsistency of this assignment with his
observation that the active body did not recoil from the target,
McMillan turned to a chemical investigation of the problem and
enlisted the collaboration of Philip Abelson. They soon found
that the key to understanding the chemistry was the state of
oxidation of the material. The similarity of the chemistry of
element 93 and uranium, which made the identification SO
difficult, led to the suggestion that there was a second "rare-
earth" group of elements starting with uranium. It also led
McMillan to propose the name "neptunium" for element 93 and to
reserve the name "plutonium" for the not yet identified element
94. McMillan next sought to make this identification as a
product of deuteron bombardment of uranium. He produced an
alpha-active substance which he was able to say on the basis of
chemical tests was not protoactinium (91), uranium (92) or
neptunium (93), but he could not make the final identification of
element 94 because he left the Radiation Laboratory for the first
of several urgent wartime positions.
In the early summer of 1945, McMillan's thoughts reverted to the
problem of accelerators. Up to the time when peacetime research
gave way to the mobilization of scientists and their equipment
for war duty, a succession of accelerators, and in particular
cyclotrons, of increasing energy were built and used in a wide
variety of programs. Although the huge magnet for the next
projected cyclotron was built, it was clear that the road to
higher energies would be a difficult one, and, unless there was a
new idea, would soon reach an absolute block. The overriding
problem of accelerator technology was how to circumvent the
energy limit. McMillan conceived a solution that was startling
in its simplicity and that would prove to be far reaching in
practice. This is called the principle of phase stability.
There is no in-principle limit to this process. The door was
opened to design accelerators for electrons, protons or heavier
ions of any energy. The large accelerators, which are at the
forefront of particle research today, are based on three
fundamentals--the principle of phase stability, the earlier
invention of the cyclotron and the more recent invention of
strong focusing.
In parallel with his remarkably productive research career
McMillan taught as a faculty member in the Physics Department at
Berkeley where he gained a reputation for clarity and simplicity
in his teaching and for an astonishingly wide range of knowledge.
Nov. 17 / Administration of George Bush, 1989
agreement, in general terms at least, on
Peter, and everybody else. I just want to
Proc
what kinds of steps need to be taken.
thank you for joining me as I participate for
1989
the first time in a tradition as old as the
Nov
George Bush
American Presidency: the signing of the
The White House,
annual Thanksgiving Day proclamation.
By t
November 17, 1989.
Two hundred years ago, George Washing-
of A
ton signed the original proclamation for a
AP
Note: H.R. 2710, approved November 17,
day of thanksgiving: a day of thanks for the
was assigned Public Law No. 101-157.
bounty we enjoy-[laughter]-and, above
0
all, for the blessings of freedom. And that's
pau
why I'm so pleased to welcome the young
free
Americans and recent newcomers to our
hav
country who are here today. [Laughter]
pilg
Like every American-come on, this is seri-
offe
Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater
ous stuff-[laughter-you, too, are descend-
gen
on the President's Telephone
of S
ants of the first Pilgrims united by a love of
Conversations With Allied Leaders
liberty. And this year, especially, as that
T
November 17, 1989
yearning for freedom inspires millions
was
bef
around the world, giving thanks for the
President Bush this morning telephoned
ton
freedoms we enjoy takes on a special mean-
the President of France, François Mitter-
ing.
ing
rand, to discuss his views on the upcoming
That brings me to another traditional
gu
Malta meeting and events in Eastern
ser
Europe. President Bush wanted the unique
moment involving our special guest over
acl
perspective provided by the French Presi-
here today-the guy in the cage there, who
wh
dent. They discussed a number of issues re-
seems understandably nervous. [Laughter]
th
garding the impact of recent events in East-
It is my great privilege to receive the tradi-
th
ern Europe on the countries of Western
tional Thanksgiving turkey. Millie has been
vio
Europe. The two Presidents agreed to talk
put upstairs, looking wistfully out of the
W:
again after the EC [European Communi-
window, I'm sure. But let me assure you,
01
ties] summit and before the Malta meeting.
and this fine tom turkey, that he will not
L
President Bush also called the Prime Min-
end up on anyone's dinner table, not this
ac
ister of Canada, Brian Mulroney, to discuss
guy-he's granted a Presidential pardon as
th
the Malta meeting and his views on these
of right now-and allow him to live out his
di
issues. President Bush and Prime Minister
days on a children's farm not far from here.
th
Mulroney have very similar thinking on
And finally, let me ask all of you to re-
C
these issues. President Bush and Prime Min-
member another American tradition. Let
a
ister Mulroney will talk again after the
this holiday time spent with family and
P
Malta meeting.
friends remind us that helping others less
V
In addition, Chancellor Kohl of West Ger-
fortunate than ourselves may be the best
F
many telephoned President Bush this morn-
way we have of giving thanks.
ing to discuss the events in his country and
And so, thank you all for coming. God
Eastern Europe.
bless you, and may the whole country have
a
a very, very happy Thanksgiving.
I
And now I will sign the proclamation.
Note: The President spoke at 11:56 a.m. in
Remarks at the Thanksgiving Day
the Rose Garden at the White House. In his
Proclamation Signing Ceremony
remarks, he referred to Peter P. Stewart,
November 17, 1989
chairman of the National Thanksgiving
Commission; John Wickliffe, president of
Welcome to the Rose Garden on this
the National Turkey Federation; and Millie,
lovely day. Mr. Wickliffe, my old friend
the Bushes' dog.
1766
Nov. 17 / Administration of George Bush, 1989
Health and Human Services, 1978-1983; as-
Ms. Marshall graduated from George
mantic
sociate professorial lecturer in the depart-
Washington University (B.A., 1960) and the
later,
ment of economics at George Washington
University of California (J.D., 1975). She was
expres
University, 1976-1978; health service fellow
born August 27, 1935, in Cincinnati, OH.
see e
for the National Center for Health Services
Ms. Marshall has one child and currently
postm
Research at the Department of Health,
resides in San Francisco, CA.
filmm
Education and Welfare, 1975-1978; faculty
of the
associate for the Survey Research Center
writin
for Social Research at the University of
seen
Michigan, 1974-1975; associate research sci-
earn a
entist for the Institute of Public Policy Stud-
Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony
entire
for the National Medal of the Arts
ies and School of Public Health, 1973-1975;
Angel
senior research associate for the Urban In-
November 17, 1989
natior
stitute in Washington, DC, 1971-1973; ex-
tras,
ecutive director of the Governor's Council
The President. Excuse the delay. We've
comp
been out there trying to calm the national
of Economic Advisers in Baltimore, MD,
cesses
1969-1970; staff economist for the Presi-
turkey, which has all worked out very well.
We
[Laughter] No double entendres around
art II
dent's Commission on Income Maintenance
here about that, either. [Laughter]
cans.
Programs in Washington, DC, 1968-1969;
and research associate in the department of
Thank you-all of you-for being here
our S
today for the fifth annual presentation of
have
economics at the University of Michigan,
the National Medal of the Arts. It is a great
tivity
1968.
pleasure and an honor for Barbara and me
cial
Dr. Wilensky graduated from the Univer-
to welcome you to the White House. I just
regu
sity of Michigan (A.B., 1964; M.A., 1965;
want to thank the National Council on the
tiona
Ph.D., 1968). She was born June 14, 1943,
Arts; the Committee on the Arts and Hu-
these
in Detroit, MI. Dr. Wilensky is married, has
manities; as well as John Frohnmayer, our
To
two children, and resides in Washington,
new and distinguished Chairman of the
wom
DC.
NEA; and of course, Hugh Southern for the
pass
support and encouragement of America's
tape
cultural life.
age.
Dante once wrote that "Art imitates
of the
nature as well as it can, as a pupil follows
chal
Nomination of Carol M. Marshall To
Be Superintendent of the Mint of the
his master; and thus it is a sort of grand-
som
United States at San Francisco
child of God." Well, as this, "grandchild of
sigh
God," art embraces our values in history,
us t
November 17, 1989
gives meaning to our existence, and illumi-
our
nates the basic human truths which give us
T
The President today announced his inten-
purpose. In a way, art defines our civiliza-
his
tion to nominate Carol Mayer Marshall to
tion. But in another more personal way, art
inn
be Superintendent of the Mint of the
opens entire new worlds for each of us, let-
Kat
United States at San Francisco, the Depart-
ting us see and hear and even feel life
reo
ment of Treasury. This is a new position.
through the mind of someone else, from
tur
Since 1986 Ms. Marshall has served as the
new perspectives. And instead of seeing a
Mc
president of Carol Mayer Marshall and As-
single world, we can see as many worlds as
Ad
sociates in San Francisco, CA. Prior to this,
there are artists and writers, dancers and
ho
she served as the vice president of Public
musicians.
en
and Private Consultants, Inc., 1981-1986;
The diversity of art in this nation is truly
his
an attorney with Washburn and Kemp,
a product of the diversity of our democracy.
VI
1985-1986; assistant to the president of the
The American arts, like a many-faceted
Investment Development Fund, 1979-1981.
mirror, have been a colorful reflection of
th
She purchased, renovated, and sold single
this nation's history. The music of the fron-
tis
family homes in San Francisco, CA, 1977-
tier led to the blues of the bayou, and the
be
1979. Ms. Marshall was a partner with Plan-
swing bands of the cities. The primitivism
en
ning Research Consultants, Inc., 1973-1977.
of the early painters gave way to the ro-
th
1770
Administration of George Bush, 1989 / Nov. 17
m George
manticism of the Hudson River school and,
Martin Friedman of the Walker Art Center
60) and the
later, American impressionism and abstract
in Minneapolis, Leigh Gerdine of Webster
5). She was
expressionism. In architecture, Americans
University in St. Louis, and the Dayton
nnati, OH.
see everything from the Federal style to
Hudson Corporation.
I currently
postmodernism. Modern photography and
And now I will ask John Frohnmayer if
filmmaking have their roots in the tintypes
he will read the citations for the National
of the Civil War era. And from our earliest
Medal of the Arts to our recipients. John, all
writings to this week's best seller list, we've
yours.
seen American poetry, novels, short stories
Mr. Frohnmayer. Thank you, Mr. Presi-
earn a unique place in the literature of the
dent.
Ceremony
entire world. Cities like New York and Los
Arts
Leopold Adler II is a nationally recog-
Angeles have become art capitals of inter-
nized expert in historic preservation, one
national importance; and regional orches-
who has changed the face of his hometown,
tras, museums, dance troupes, and opera
lay. We've
Savannah, Georgia. He was the driving
companies have enjoyed spectacular suc-
force behind two remarkable revitalization
e national
cesses.
very well.
experiments. One refurbished the historic
We need to make this great diversity of
es around
section of Savannah, and the other renovat-
art more a part of the lives of all Ameri-
]
ed low-income housing in the Victorian dis-
cans. And we need to begin this effort in
trict. Mr. Adler has also served as a trustee
eing here
our schools so that our young people will
for almost a decade for the National Trust
entation of
have a sense of their heritage and the crea-
for Historic Preservation.
t is a great
tivity of the present. We need to make spe-
ra and me
The citation reads:
cial efforts to reach out to those who do not
ouse. I just
regularly participate. The work of the Na-
"To Leopold Adler for his civic leadership
cil on the
tional Endowment is especially important in
in preserving for all time the beauty of Sa-
S and Hu-
these areas.
vannah, Georgia, and for making that city a
nayer, our
Today, we honor a group of men and
model of the art of historic preservation."
an of the
women whose creative ideas, talent, and
Katherine Dunham is an outstanding
ern for the
passion have added so much to the rich
dancer and choreographer. The Dunham
America's
tapestry that is our nation's cultural herit-
Company, the first black professional dance
age. Their work is not just of the mind but
company in America, performed through-
t imitates
of the heart and of the soul. And some have
out the world from 1938 through 1963, pre-
pil follows
challenged us; some have amazed us; and
senting the dance, music, and folklore of
of grand-
some have brought remarkable beauty of
Third World countries and the United
ndchild of
sight and sound to us. But all have helped
States. For over 30 years, Ms. Dunham has
in history,
us to think and to dream and to understand
maintained the only permanently self-subsi-
and illumi-
ourselves and our world a little better.
dized dance troupe in America. She also
ch give us
Today, we honor Alfred Eisenstaedt for
founded the Dunham School of Arts and
ur civiliza-
his photography, Dizzy Gillespie for his jazz
Research in New York City.
al way, art
innovations, John Updike for his prose,
The citation reads:
of us, let-
Katherine Dunham for her dance and cho-
"To Katherine Dunham for her pioneer-
1 feel life
reography, Walker Hancock for his sculp-
ing explorations of Caribbean and African
else, from
ture, Czeslaw Milosz for his poetry, Robert
dance, which have enriched and trans-
f seeing a
Motherwell for his paintings, and Leopold
formed the art of dance in America."
worlds as
Adler for his historic preservation. And we
Alfred Eisenstaedt is the quintessential
ncers and
honor someone whose great talent and
photojournalist who pioneered the introduc-
energy will live on, long after the sounds of
tion of the candid camera technique into
on is truly
his music has faded, and that is the late
news reporting. After emigrating from West
emocracy.
Vladimir Horowitz.
Prussia in 1935, he joined the original pho-
ny-faceted
And we honor the patrons of the arts,
tography staff of the new magazine, Life.
flection of
those who understand that without the ar-
Mr. Eisenstaedt's most famous photo is that
F the fron-
tistic creativity of its people no nation can
of a sailor kissing a nurse in Times Square
1, and the
be whole, and those whose dedication,
at the end of World War II. As a photogra-
rimitivism
energy and commitment have sustained
pher, he has won almost every major na-
to the ro-
that creativity over the years. We honor
tional professional award.
1771
wash.
Post
Oct.
22,
1990
"The gloom comes out of looking
at Washington and saying this is
absurd," said Harvard biologist Wal-
ter Gilbert, a 1980 Nobel laureate.
Are Nobel Prizes for U.S.
"The strength of American science
has been due to an enlightened gov-
ernment policy over the past 30
years. That compact has now been
Vestiges of 'Golden Age"?
destroyed. We no longer have a
government that believes it has a
responsibility to create new knowl-
Many See Dominance in Science Nearing End
edge for the benefit of society."
Scientists are hardly objective on
the subject of their own funding
By Malcolm Gladwell
needs. The best scientists at the
Washington Post Staff Writer
best schools-those who tend to
win Nobel prizes-continue to get
Last week was a triumphant one
handsome research grants, and the
for American science.
total allotment for U.S. research
On Wednesday, U.S.-trained re-
continues to rise-albeit not by as
searchers swept the Nobel prizes
much as scientists would like.
for physics and chemistry, capping
Even the most apocalyptic mem-
an extraordinary Nobel season in
bers of the scientific community
which all but one of the nine aca-
concede that the size and wealth of
demic winners were U.S.-born and
the U.S. research establishment
all were products of U.S. universi
continues to dwarf that of the rest
ties.
of the world.
But at a time when American sci-1
Still the depth of pessimism
ence is facing its worst funding cri-
among those on whom the country's
sis since World War II, this year's
scientific future depends has
Nobels were also an occasion for
opened a serious debate about how
melancholy. As is the Nobel cus-
well the machinery of U.S. research
tom, all the awards were for work
is now being managed.
done 20 and 30 years ago, when
What was it about the American
American science was at its zenith.
system that caused the extraordi-
Few feel the work being done
nary flowering of genius over the
today in the sciences will fare as
past 40 years? And are scientists
well. Indeed for many the 40-year
correct in assuming that that intan-
dominance of the prizes by the
gible quality is imperiled by funding
United States-during which time
cutbacks?
30 of the 65 cited for chemistry
The success of the U.S. scientific
were U.S. scientists, as were 61 of
community in winning awards like
the 95 cited in medicine and 47 of
the Nobel has its roots in the coun-
the 87 in physics-is nearing an
try's post-war prosperity, which
end.
enabled the United States to devote
"The period in which my col-
enormous resources to science at a
leagues and I carried out these ex-
time when its chief competitor-
periments we refer to as the golden
Europe-was rebuilding from the
age," said Henry Kendall of the
war. After 1957, when the Soviet
Massachusetts Institute of Tech-
Union launched the first man-made
nology, who shared this year's
Earth satellite, a panicky United
physics prize for work done in the
States sharply increased its funding
late 1960s. "We have long since
of science.
regarded it as vanished."
The resource-rich United States
not only developed its scientific tal-
ent but became a magnet for the
rest of the world's most creative
researchers. Among those who
came here as refugees from Hitler's
Europe alone were eight Nobel lau-
"The real breakthroughs are the
things you never expected to find,"
said Burton Richter, a 1976 physics
laureate from Stanford University.
"They can't be predicted and they
very often start from an idea that
no one agrees with."
reates and four who would go on to
Many scientists say, however,
win prizes. Numerous others have
that the funding crunch imperils the
come since: 19 of the 62 U.S. lau-
ability of the system to continue to
reates in medicine since the end of
reward the young and the idio-
World War II, for example, were
syncratic-that aspect that has
born elsewhere.
proven so attractive to the rest of
Many scientists also believe that
the world and so adept at encour-
the culture of U.S. academe and the
aging brilliance.
organization of research has lent
It isn't that scientists aren't get-
itself ideally to creative, ground-
ting funded. Overall levels are in-
breaking work.
creasing. But the rate of increase
Where post-graduate education
has not kept pace with the explosion
exists in' Europe, for example, it
in science.
tends to be concentrated at re-
For example, a decade ago the
search academies, which are run
National Institutes of Health
under the direction of senior scien-
deemed 13,000 research ideas wor-
tists and receive block grants from
thy of pursuit and funded 90 per-
the government.
cent of them-about 11,700. This
In the United States, by contrast,
year a record 22,500 are expected
researchers in a given discipline
to win approval but the NIH has
tend to be scattered at many differ-
money for only 20 percent of them,
ent institutions. And research
leaving many younger researchers
grants are made not to institutions
and less popular ideas out in the
but to individuals.
cold.
As a result, in the United States
"To get funded these days you
researchers tend to be able to pur-
have to have all 12 people on "a
sue their own ideas at a younger
[NIH] reviewing committee agree
age than in Europe, a crucial con-
that an idea is a good one," said
sideration given that most prize-
Robert Root-Bernstein, a physiol-
winning scientists tend to do their
ogist at Michigan State University.
best work during their late 20s and
"But I bet that if you look back you
early 30s.
couldn't find even one of 12 phys-
In addition, the diversity of the
icists during Einstein's time who
U.S. scientific establishment, with
thought that his ideas were any
scores of competing institutions and
good."
dozens of sources of money, per-
"I see us being more and more
mits the exploration of ideas that
oriented to stay within the main-
would be too far-fetched or risky for
stream, to go for the sure bet, the
a more conservative system. And it
things that we know are going to
is the seemingly far-fetched ideas
pay off," said William Brinkley, a
that often result in award-winning
biologist at the University of Ala-
work.
bama at Birmingham. "When the
money is tight, the risky science is
the first to go."
"We have come of age scientif-
ically in the post-war period," said
Harvard University physicist Ger-
ald Holton. "But the projections for
the future are ominous. The thing
to do is not to congratulate our-
selves, but to worry about what will
happen next."
t: science
=
the endless frontier
A report to the President on a
Program for Postwar Scientific Research
By Vannevar Bush
Director of the
N.S. Office of Scientific Research and Development
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
"
July 1945
Reprinted July 1960
National Science Foundation
,
Washington, D.C.
VANNEVAR Bush
NSF-60-40
Part Two
We have no national policy for science. The Government has only begun
to utilize science in the Nation's welfare. There is no body within the Gov-
ernment charged with formulating or executing a national science policy.
There are no standing committees of the Congress devoted to this important
subject. Science has been in the wings. It should be brought to the center
of the stage-for in it lies much of our hope for the future.
There are areas of science in which the public interest is acute but which
are likely to be cultivated inadequately if left without more support than will
come from private sources. These areas-such as research on military prob-
lems, agriculture, housing, public health, certain medical. research, and re-
search involving expensive capital facilities beyond the capacity of private
THE WAR AGAINST DISEASE
institutions-should be advanced by active Government support. To date,
with the exception of the intensive war research conducted by the Office of
Scientific Research and Development, such support has been meager and
intermittent.
In War
For reasons presented in this report we are entering a period when science
needs and deserves increased support from public funds.
The death rate for all diseases in the Army, including the overseas force
has been reduced from 14.1 per thousand in the last war to 0.6 per thousan
in this war.
Freedom of Inquiry Must Be Preserved
Such ravaging diseases as vellow fever, dysentery, typhus, tetanus, pne
monia, and meningitis have been all but conquered by penicillin and th
The publicly and privately supported colleges, universities, and research
sulfa drugs, the insecticide DDT, better vaccines, and improved hygien
institutes are the centers of basic research. They are the wellsprings of
measures. Malaria has been controlled. There has been dramatic progre
knowledge and understanding. As long as they are vigorous and healthy
in surgery.
and their scientists are free to pursue the truth wherever it may lead, there
The striking advances in medicine during the war have been possible on
will be a flow of new scientific knowledge to those who can apply it to
because we had a large backlog of scientific data accumulated through bas
practical problems in Government, in industry, or elsewhere.
research in many scientific fields in the years before the war.
Many of the lessons learned in the war-time application of science under
Government can be profitably applied in peace. The Government is pecul-
iarly fitted to perform certain functions, such as the coordination and support
In Peace
of broad programs on problems of great national importance. But we must
proceed with caution in carrying over the methods which work in wartime
In the last 40 years life expectancy in the United States has increas
to the very different conditions of peace. We must remove the rigid controls
from 49 to 65 years largely as' a consequence of the reduction in the dea
which we have had to impose, and recover freedom of inquiry and that
rates of infants and children; in the last 20 years the death rate from tl
healthy competitive scientific spirit so necessary for expansion of the frontiers
diseases of childhood has been reduced 87 percent.
of scientific knowledge.
Diabetes has been brought under control by insulin, pernicious anem
Scientific progress on a broad front results from the free play of free
by liver extracts; and. the once widespread deficiency diseases have be
intellects, working on subjects of their own choice, in the manner dictated
much reduced, even in the lowest income groups, by accessory food facto
by their curiosity for exploration of the unknown. Freedom of inquiry must
and improvement of dict. Notable advances have been made in the ear
be preserved under any plan for Government support of science in accord-
diagnosis of cancer, and in the surgical and radiation treatment of the disea:
ance with the Five Fundamentals listed on page 32.
These results have been achieved through a great amount of basic resear
The study of the momentous questions presented in President Roosevelt's
in medicine and the preclinical sciences, and by the dissemination of t]
letter has been made by able committees working diligently. This report
new scientific knowledge through the physicians and medical services a:
presents conclusions and recommendations based upon the studies of these
public health agencies of the country. In this cooperative endeavor t
committees which appear in full as the appendices. Only in the creation of
pharmaceutical industry has played an important role, especially during t
one over-all mechanism rather than several does this report depart from the
war. All of the medical and public health groups share credit for the
specific recommendations of the committees. The members of the committees
achievements; they form interdependent members of a team.
have reviewed the recommendations in regard to the single mechanism and
Progress in combating disease depends upon an expanding body of n
have found this plan thoroughly acceptable.
scientific knowledge.
12
Biological Sciences
E. Donnall Thomas
Clinical Director Emeritus
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
Seattle, WA
Citation:
For his pioneering work in the science and
application of transplantation biology to
successful bone marrow transplantation in man
for the treatment of cancer and related
conditions.
Summary of Achievements
E. Donnall Thomas has combined a career as laboratory
investigator, clinician, teacher and clinical investigator in a
fashion rarely found. He persevered in the development of
successful bone marrow transplantation in man where others
initially attracted to the technique left the field. In the
early days complications which could not be explained based upon
human biological knowledge were considered too difficult to
overcome. Dr. Thomas overcame those problems through bringing
insights from the laboratory to the clinical setting. Extending
the donor pool to matched but unrelated individuals has made the
technique possible as a lifesaving procedure to a significant
proportion of individuals originally precluded from this
treatment because they lacked an immunologically matched donor
sibling or parent. The fundamental approach of marrow
transplantation through manipulation of stem cells and their
introduction into a new body provides a vehicle for gene transfer
as well as an important management technique in the treatment of
inherited disorders of hemoglobin synthesis and other genetic
problems. Application of transplantation has opened up new
research avenues in immunosuppression, the continuing efforts to
solve the problem of graft-versus-host disease, and the
management of the immunocompromised patient. Dr. Thomas and his
colleagues not too long ago performed a significant proportion of
all transplants undertaken in the world. Today that fraction has
decreased considerably because of the development of other units
elsewhere throughout the world, all of them heavily dependent on
the experimental results reported by Dr. Thomas and his
colleagues, and many directly dependent for their success upon
training with Dr. Thomas in his laboratory and clinics in
Seattle.
Biological Sciences
Baruj Benacerraf
Chairman, Department of Pathology
Harvard Medical School
and
President & Chief Executive Officer
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Boston, MA
Citation:
For his fundamental contributions to the
understanding of the immune system, including much
of the work which forms the basis of knowledge of
transplantation immunology and regulatory function
in the immune response.
Summary of Achievements
Baruj Benacerraf has made fundamental contributions to all aspects of
immunology, including immunochemistry, immunogenetics, cellular
immunology and immunopathology over a span of 40 years. Among his
most important contributions is the discovery that antigens need to be
processed by antigen presenting cells before immunogenic fragments are
generated and presented to T-derived lymphocytes in close association
with molecules of the major histocompatibility complex.
In 1963, Dr. Benacerraf initiated studies which demonstrated that
immune responsiveness is under the control of genes of the major
histocompatibility complex. These surface molecules were later shown,
as predicted by Dr. Benacerraf, to function as carriers of processed
peptide antigens which are recognized in association with the major
histocompatibility molecules themselves by the T-cell receptor. These
contributions have been essential to the understanding of
transplantation immunity and the regulatory function of T-lymphocytes
in the immune response.
In addition to his contributions in immunogenetics and cellular
immunology, Dr. Benacerraf was responsible for the discovery of (1)
the Fc receptor of immunoglobulins which explained the binding of
these molecules to phagocytic cells, (2) the role of immune complexes
in glomerulonephritis, and (3) the heterogeneity of immunoglobulin
isotypes in relation to their function.
Furthermore, Dr. Benacerraf has been responsible for the training of a
very large number of immunologists in the United States and abroad.
The list of scientists trained over the last 30 years in Dr.
Benacerraf's laboratory reads as a "Who's Who in Immunology." Among
these are numerous professors, chairmen of departments and heads of
laboratories, as well as members of the National Academy of Sciences.
Jackie Clausen
2870
Clawson
Kosselin
Engineering
Mildred S. Dresselhaus
Institute Professor
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
Citation:
For her studies of the electronic properties of
metals and semimetals, and for her service to
the Nation in establishing a prominent place for
women in physics and engineering
Summary of Achievement
Mildred Dresselhaus is the most prominent woman physicist and
engineer of her generation. Her most important research
accomplishments have been in the area of the optical properties
of metals and semimetals. Her magnetoreflection studies of
bismuth provided experimental substantiation for the band
structure of this prototype semimetal. Dr. Dresselhaus's
experimental and theoretical contributions to the understanding
of the electronic structure of graphite with and without
intercalants have had great impact both in the United States and
abroad, especially in Japan. Her studies of the staging in
graphite intercalation compounds provided important information
about the interplay between their structural and electronic
properties. These studies of two-dimensional metals have become
especially important with the advent of the high temperature
superconductors which, like graphite, are lamellar. She began
her career with important measurements of the properties of
conventional superconductors and has recently returned to that
field with the advent of high temperature superconductors.
As a role model for women in science and engineering, her impact
has been enormous. As Professor of Electrical Engineering and
Computer Science since 1968 and as Professor of Physics since
1983, she has educated an entire generation of MIT women and
encouraged them to pursue science and engineering careers. In
large part because of her, the fraction of MIT freshman that are
women has grown by a factor of three to four. Her list of
breakthroughs is impressive: she is one of only two women to
have been President of the American Physical Society; she was the
first woman Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer
Science; she is the only woman Institute Professor at MIT; she
was the only woman Director of an NSF Materials Research
Laboratory; and she has served on a wide variety of governmental
and National Academy committees. All while maintaining a vibrant
research program.
Physical Sciences
Allan M. Cormack
University Professor
Tufts University
Medford, MA
Citation:
For his scientific work including the development
of computer assisted tomography; and as a scholar
and teacher, especially of undergraduates.
Summary of Achievements
In 1979 Allan M. Cormack (jointly with G. N. Hounsfield) was awarded
the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine with the citation, "For the
development of computer assisted tomography." This work
revolutionized medical diagnosis, and "CAT-scan" is now a household
word. In 1963 and 1964 he developed the theory and an experimental
confirmation of the fact that from a series of X-ray transmission
profiles one can compute the variable X-ray coefficients in objects;
for example, human bodies. Further, he suggested that this general
method had important applications in precise radiology and
radiotherapy. In Science, [186, 207 (1974) ] it was noted that the
"remarkable" paper of 1963 contained "the essence of computerized
axial tomography." These historic papers point out the applicability
of this method to positron emission tomography (PET scanning) which
was then in an embryonic stage.
Tomographic reconstruction methods now have widespread applications of
which only two will be cited. Magnetic resonance imaging was
originally based on the same principles of image reconstruction.
Crystallographic electron microscopy is based on a mathematical
equivalent of the same principles.
In presenting the accomplishments of Cormack, one should not review
only the widely known work on computer assisted tomography. From his
first work in 1945, he has contributed in the areas of nuclear and
particle physics, mathematics, and most recently, radiotherapy
planning.
It is important in describing Cormack's work to note that throughout
the 40 years of splendid research, he has also been an exemplary
teacher of many students. He prefers to teach undergraduate students,
and has had a most positive impact on both young physicists and
engineering students. In these days of "scientific and technological
illiteracy," the importance of such a scholar in the classroom is
absolutely essential.
McNally/Dooley
Nov. 7, 1990
Draft One (B:SCIENCE)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL MEDAL OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
THE EAST ROOM
TUESDAY, NOV. 13, 1990, 2:00PM. M.
Thank you. We're pleased to see Secretary Mosbacher,
Secretary Sullivan, and Dr. Bromley here to help us out. And we
especially want to greet our honored guests, this extraordinary
gathering of scientific and technological genius.
Welcome to the White House -- and welcome to the presenta-
tion of the 1990 National Medals of Science and Technology. III
( (The timing of these awards is fortuitous. A year ago this
week, Barbara and I awarded medals to some of the artistic giants
of our time -- Alfred Eisenstaedt, Dizzy Gillespie, and John
Updike, among others. \\ And with all that assembled talent,
guess what led the evening news? 11 The Rose Garden presenta-
tion of the National Turkey. III So you're in luck -- this year
the Turkey doesn't arrive until Thursday!)) III
This gathering marks a proud moment for me -- just as it was
when this year's Nobel Prizes were announced, and it turned out
that eight of the nine winners in science and economics were born
in the U.S.A. It is a tribute to America's frontier spirit, and
to our Nation's steadfast resolve and sense of the future. For
when it comes to science and technology -- best in America means
best in the world. III
America's tradition of excellence has long been nurtured by
a tradition of free inquiry -- aimed at the simple goal of better
understanding ourselves and our world. In the 1945 report
2
that led to the founding of the N.S.F., the National Science
Foundation, Vannevar Bush wrote that: "As long as scientists are
free to pursue the truth wherever it may lead, there will be a
flow of new scientific knowledge to those who can apply it to
practical problems."
And so it is today. More and more, the country depends on
basic scientific research to spur economic growth, longer and
healthier lives, a more secure world, and a safer environment.
And our government must help carry that research forward, and
contribute to the development of technologies that build on basic
discoveries. In this way, we can help leverage the R & D of the
private sector -- helping whole industries advance in an
increasingly competitive global marketplace.
The new budget highlights our Administration's commitment to
science and technology. We won double-digit increases for both
NASA and the N.S.F., and expanded funds to investigate global
climate change. We remain committed to doing even more:
Doubling the N.S.F. over five years, and making permanent the tax
credit for R & E -- research and experimentation. And we're
going to keep raising America's sights: NASA's Space Exploration
Initiative will take us to the Moon and Mars and beyond -- back
to space, back to the future, and this time -- back to stay. III
So in the next budget, we're going to put it to Congress
again. We're going to say: "Put our money where our future is.
Stop funding pork-barrel projects in your home districts and let
our scientists and engineers go to work for America." III
3
30 years from now, when the Nobel Prizes are announced -- I
want America to be well-represented. And 30 years from now, when
the Medals of Science and Technology are bestowed, I want America
to be graced by a group as accomplished as those here today.
I think of Mildred Dresselhaus, arguably the most prominent
woman physicist and engineer of her generation, whose work helped
to revolutionize semi-conductors. Or Allan Cormack, whose
pioneering efforts earned him a Nobel Prize -- and made "CAT-
scans" a household word. And scholars as diverse as Boston's
Baruj Benacerraf -- or Seattle's Donnall Thomas -- whose
contributions to immunology may lead to new answers in our battle
against cancer and AIDS. Scientists like you have helped America
to understand that AIDS is a disease -- not a disgrace. And
somewhere out there -- along with the gratitude of planet Earth
-- one of these Medals is waiting for the man or woman who
discovers the cure to this deadly scourge. III
Another legacy of this prestigious medal and the work it
honors must be the cultivation of excellence in science and math
in classrooms across America. The National Science Scholars
program we proposed soon after taking office has now been enacted
-- and will encourage budding scholars of today to become the
scientists of tomorrow. Guiding our efforts is an ambitious but
critical goal for this decade: "By the Year 2000, U.S. students
will be first in the world in science and math."
This week is education week, and its theme is "Educating
Everyone Takes Everyone" -- a fitting motto for the challenges
4
that lie ahead. If we truly are to achieve a renaissance of
quality in our schools, we must tap the talent, energy, and
commitment of all our families, businesses, and universities.
The people we honor today are American trailblazers, real-
life pioneers who pressed the very limits of their fields. You
have distinguished not only yourselves -- but also your Nation.
And that's why America continues to need and want -- and
appreciate -- your creativity, your genius and your diversity.
Thank you. Congratulations. And God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20506
November 7, 1990
MEMORANDUM TO:
ED McNALLY
FROM:
STEVE OLSON
SUBJECT:
TALKING POINTS FOR PRESIDENTIAL SPEECH
Ed: Here are a set of talking points for the President's speech next Tuesday. If you
need more information, I'm at 2734.
o A former recipient of the Medal of Science, Leon Lederman, has written:
"One takes up fundamental science out of a sense of pure excitement, out of joy at
enhancing human culture, out of awe at the heritage handed down by generations of
masters, and out of a need to publish first and become famous." You have certainly
all succeeded in this last venture. But the Medals of Science and Technology
acknowledge that you also have succeeded at the others.
0 This is a proud moment for me to see the array of scientific and
technological genius gathered here in the White House just as it was when this
year's Nobel Prizes were announced, and eight of the nine winners in science and
economics turned out to have been born and educated in the United States. It is a
tribute to this country's frontier spirit -- to its steadfast resolve and sense of the
future that the United States has for decades led the world in science and
technology.
o But in recent years that lead has occasionally faltered. Other countries
have focused their resources and have come to equal -- or even surpass -- the United
States in particular areas of science and technology. In part, this was to be expected,
as other countries recognized the benefits to be gained from science and technology.
But the United States must not lose sight of the traditions responsible for its success.
0 The most powerful of those is the tradition of free inquiry, directed by the
scientific community itself, aimed at the simple goal of better understanding ourselves
and the world. In Science: The Endless Frontier, the 1945 report that led to the
establishment of the National Science Foundation, Vannevar Bush wrote that "As long
as
scientists are free to pursue the truth wherever it may lead, there will be a
flow of new scientific knowledge to those who can apply it to practical problems."
That statement remains as true today as it was 45 years ago. More and more, the
country depends on basic scientific research as a spur to economic growth, a more
secure world, longer and healthier lives, and a safer environment.
0 Since last February, an equally distinguished committee of private sector
scientists and engineers has been reporting directly to me -- the President's Council of
Advisors on Science and Technology. The Council has been meeting monthly and has
covered issues ranging from economic competitiveness to mathematics and science
education, from global change to supercomputing. And that Council is itself chaired
by a National Medalist of Science, my science advisor Allan Bromley.
0 The input that I get from them is critical. More and more of the decisions
made by the federal government involve large components of science and technology.
So I have to get the best possible advice, and for that I have to rely on the best
scientists and engineers that this country has to offer.
Science and Mathematics Education
o [Ed: I have a large amount of material on science and mathematics
education, but since OPD is providing you with some of this, I thought I would wait
and see what they provide.]
cc:
Allan Bromley
Ken Yale
0 At the same time, the government must do more than sponsor basic
research. It must carry that research a step forward and contribute to the
development of generic, precompetitive technologies that build on basic discoveries.
These technologies do not give an advantage to any one company, but they help whole
industries and economic sectors advance in the global marketplace. In this way, the
government can leverage the research and development of the private sector, so that
businesses can develop products and services that are internationally competitive.
double
0
The budget that I sent to Congress last January highlighted this
Administration's commitment to science and technology. It proposed doubling the
size of the National Science Foundation over five years, moving ahead on NASA's
Space Exploration Initiative and Mission to Planet Earth, expanding the U.S. Global
Change Research Program to reduce the many uncertainties surrounding climate
change, and making the research and experimentation tax credit for businesses
permanent. That budget reflected a guiding principle behind my Administration: the
idea that support for science and technology is one of the most important investments
we can make in the future of this country.
0 In recent years, we have invested too little in this vital resource. Already,
Japan and Germany spend a greater fraction of their gross national products on
research and development, and the gap has been growing. That is a trend we have to
reverse.
0 The Congress fulfilled some of the requests in the budget I submitted, but
many others it ignored. So in the next budget we're going to go back to Congress
and we're going to say to them, "Put our money where our future is. Stop funding
pork-barrel projects in your home districts and let scientists and engineers go to work
for this country."
o In the last few months, government-wide groups under the Federal
Coordinating Council for Science, Engineering, and Technology have been looking at
two critical areas of science and technology -- high-performance computing and
mathematics and science education -- to propose future directions in which the
government can go. And we are planning to do this for other areas of science and
technology in the future.
o
Our intention is to make sure that the United States maintains its
preeminence. When the Nobel Prizes are announced 30 years from now, I want
Americans to be well-represented. When the Medals of Science and Technology are
bestowed in the future, I want to make sure that the country is honored by a group
as distinguished and accomplished as this one.
PCAST
0 This year is the hundredth anniversary of Dwight D. Eisenhower's birth, and
Eisenhower was the first President to establish a committee of scientists and engineers
who reported directly to him. He later wrote, "Without such distinguished help, any
President in our time would be, to a certain extent, disabled."
11/6/90
Presidential Remarks: Science and Technology Medals
The President is scheduled to honor winners of the Science
and Technology Medal on November 13. Because this event falls
during American Education Week, it may be appropriate to weave
an education theme into the President's remarks. The following
points may be relevant:
The legacy of this prestigious medal and the accomplish-
ments it honors must begin with cultivating excellence in
science and mathematics education in schools across
America.
Guiding our efforts is an ambitious but critical goal for
this decade: "By the year 2000, U.S. students will be
first in the world in science and mathematics achieve-
ment."
The National Science Scholars program, an initiative I
proposed soon after taking office and Congress recently
enacted, will encourage our budding scholars to be
tomorrow's accomplished scientists.
This week is American Education Week; this year's theme:
"Educating Everyone Takes Everyone." What a fitting motto
for the challenge that lies before us. The talent, energy
and commitment of all our workers, parents, and citizens
must be tapped if we truly are to achieve a renaissance of
quality in our schools.
c: Barrie Tron
Commerce. Technology Heroes?
Timothy Garton Ash
Physical Sciences
Roger R. D. Revelle
Director Emeritus
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
University of California
La Jolla, CA
and
Richard Saltonstall Professor of Population Policy Emeritus
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Citation:
For his pioneering work in the areas of carbon
dioxide and climate modification, oceanographic
exploration presaging plate tectonics, and the
biological effects of radiation in the marine
environment, and studies of human population
growth and global food supplies.
Summary of Achievements
Roger Revelle has made major contributions during his long scientific
career. Four important areas: carbon dioxide and the "Greenhouse
Effect, " oceanographic exploration presaging plate tectonics,
biological effects of radiation, and population and global food
resources are outlined below.
Carbon Dioxide and the "Greenhouse Effect. 11 Revelle studied the
buffer mechanism of sea water as a student of oceanography. Revelle
and his coauthors found that only half of the CO2 released by fossil
fuel and other anthropogenic activities go into the ocean, not 98% as
had been thought. Revelle and Suess pointed out that the other half
would stay in the atmosphere with potentially serious effects.
Consequently, Revelle organized a program to measure CO2 on top of
Mauna Loa in Hawaii and at the South Pole. These measurements were
started in 1957 by C. D. Keeling and continue today. They constitute
the principal source of data upon which all subsequent atmospheric CO2
studies have been based.
In 1965, the President's Science Advisory Committee under Revelle's
leadership published the first authoritative U.S. government report in
which CO2 from fossil fuel was officially recognized as a potential
global problem. In 1977, Revelle chaired a National Academy of
Sciences committee which found that about 40% of the anthropogenic CO2
has remained in the atmosphere, 2/3 of that from fossil fuel, 1/3 from
the clearing of forests. These show that the CO2 content will rise
over the century to five times the preindustrial value. Since 1977,
Revelle has written 15 papers on this subject. His recent studies
concern the rise in global sea level and the relative role played by
the melting of glaciers and ice sheets versus the thermal expansion of
the warming of surface waters.
Oceanographic Exploration Presaging Plate Tectonics. As Director of
the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Revelle initiated, planned
and led a series of important oceanographic expeditions. Four
noteworthy discoveries were made on two of these expeditions, MIDPAC
(1950) and CAPRICORN (1952-1953) : (1) the extreme thinness of deep
sea sediments; (2) the high upward heat flow through the sea bottom;
(3) the young age ( 60 million years) of sea mounts; and (4) the
existence of enormous fault zones (now called transform faults).
These discoveries brought then prevalent conceptions of earth history
and seafloor structure into question and anticipated the acceptance of
plate tectonic theory.
Revelle and Maxwell measured the thermal conductivity of deep sea
floor sediments and found these to be about equal to measurements of
heat flow on land. This contravened the common conception that heat
flow beneath the ocean should be much lower than heat flow from the
continents. Revelle and Maxwell concluded that the heat must come
from the decay of small amounts of radioactive materials throughout a
thick column of rock and that heat must be carried outward by a
convective churning of the rocks of the Earth's mantle. Revelle
encouraged V. Vacquier's magnetic surveys and studies of transform
faults and provided opportunities for other scientists including
Bullard, Dietz, Mason and Maxwell to conduct important geophysical
research. Heat flow, magnetic survey and other data served as the
empirical basis for the conception of sea floor spreading and plate
tectonic theory.
Biological Effects of Radiation. Revelle led the oceanographic and
geophysical components of Operation Crossroads, the first postwar
atomic test at Bikini Atoll in 1946 and resurveyed the island in 1947
to study the diffusion of radioactive wastes and the environmental
effects of atomic radiation. Revelle continued his studies in this
area as chair of the Oceanography and Fisheries Panel of the National
Academy of Sciences Biological Effects of Atomic Radiation Committee.
The report of this committee was the first public report to consider
the question of radioactive waste disposal in the sea, a subject
pursued in subsequent publications by Revelle and Schaefer.
Population and Global Food Resources. Revelle served as first Science
Advisor to the Secretary of the Department of the Interior (1961-1963)
and worked on problems of the environment, world population growth and
the social and economic development of poor nations. Revelle
organized and led a study of soil conditions in the Punjab Basin of
West Pakistan which effectively doubled the agricultural yield of the
region. As first Director of the Harvard Center for Population
Studies, Revelle and his coauthors conducted studies of human
fertility and the interactions among growing populations, their
resources and their environment. Revelle conducted important studies
of water resources and energy use in rural India, and Revelle and
Thomas suggested improvements in the efficiency of the High Aswan Dam
for irrigation. Revelle's most recent work concerns the improvement
of agricultural production in West Africa.
Revelle's contributions to science cannot be evaluated without
considering his administrative achievements and his promotion of
international scientific cooperation. During World War II, Revelle
directed the oceanographic work of the Navy Bureau of Ships and was
largely responsible for the growth of the Navy's program on submarine
warfare. He was one of a small group of officers who promoted the
establishment of the Office of Naval Research, and he served as first
Director of ONR's Geophysics Branch. Revelle was Director of the
Scripp's Institution of Oceanography for 14 years. He conceived and
helped found the University of California, San Diego.
Chemistry
Karl Folkers
Ashbel Smith Professor and
Director of the Institute for Biomedical Research
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX
Citation:
For his discoveries and leadership in combining
basic chemical research and clinical medicine to
achieve new treatments of diseases which have
enhanced the quality of life and extended survival
rates for countless people.
Summary of Achievements
Multiple major discoveries on diverse subjects produced over an
inordinately long time period independent of places and persons
exemplify Karl Folkers' outstanding career. In three separate
locations, three distinct careers, and three different research
programs his work actively spans over half a century. Today, basic-
clinical research is his primary activity, in pursuit of his lifelong
dream of more closely linking chemistry, medicine and disease. At.
Merck and Company from 1938 to 1962 it was vitamins and antibiotics.
At Stanford Research Institute from 1963 to 1968 it was the basic
chemistry of Coenzyme Q₁₀ (COQ₁₀) and co-initiation of COQ₁₀ for patients
with muscular dystrophy. At the University of Texas at Austin from
1968 to present, it has been COQ₁₀ for patients with congestive heart
failure and the establishment of an important strategy of design for
the development of peptide antagonists by the utilization of
D-unnatural amino acid residue substitutions in biologically active
small synthetic peptides.
Karl Folkers has narrowed the gap between chemistry and medicine on
the many diverse subjects of vitamins, antibiotics, coenzyme 2 and
peptide hormones or analogs. His outstanding career has been one of
spirited intellectual perseverance, unremitting courage, success and
an inordinate amount and number of solid timeless certainties.
Mathematics
Stephen C. Kleene
Professor Emeritus
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI
Citation:
For his leadership in the theory of recursion
and effective computability and for developing
it into a deep and broad field of mathematical
research.
Summary of Achievements
Stephen Kleene's name in inextricably bound with the theory of
recursion and effective computability which he founded and helped
develop. Today it flourishes as an important part of pure
mathematics with applications within both mathematics and
computer science. Indeed it provides the theoretical
underpinnings for the abstract study of computability, and it is
hard to see how theoretical computer science could have reached
maturity as an intellectual discipline without Kleene's basic
conceptual contributions and foundational work.
The singling out of the class of "partial recursive functions"
(though extremely natural in retrospect) is a fundamental step.
All the basic regularities are for the class of partial recursive
functions, and an adequate theory cannot be developed if only the
more obvious class of total recursive functions is considered.
The development of the arithmetical hierarchy is another very
important step. In all sorts of branches of mathematical
endeavor, there is an analogous hierarchy which plays a similar
fundamental role. For example, there is the Levy hierarchy in
classical set theory, and the analytical hierarchy (also due to
Kleene) in theory of projective sets of reals. In each case, the
formal properties established are patterned to a large extent on
the theory of the arithmetical hierarchy developed by Kleene.
The fact (due to Kleene) that the notion of "well-ordering" is
complete in the class of 1 1 relations is the key that unlocks
the behavior of the first level of the analytical hierarchy. The
highly successful work of Moschovakis, Martin and others in
understanding the higher levels of the analytical hierarchy on
the basis of the axiom of projective determinacy can be viewed as
fashioning highly technical substitutes for this connection at
the higher levels of the analytical hierarchy.
Finally, Kleene's development of the method of "realizability" is
an extremely important tool in the study of the intuitionistic
mathematics of Brouwer and his disciples. To put it gently, many
classically inclined mathematicians find the writings of Brouwer
and his school obscure. Not only does realizability provide a
powerful (though admittedly incomplete) window into intuitionism
for the classical mathematician, but it has provided one of the
most effective tools for the metamathematical investigation of
intuitionistic formal systems.
Daniel E. Koshland, Jr.
Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
and Editor, Science Magazine
Citation:
For profoundly influencing the understanding of
how proteins function through his induced-fit
model of enzyme action. His incisive analysis of
bacterial chemotaxis has led to a deeper
understanding of the molecular basis of memory and
adaptation.
Summary of Achievements
Daniel Koshland has profoundly influenced the understanding of how
proteins act as catalysts and signal transducers. He was the first to
perceive that proteins are dynamic structures and that their
flexibility is at the heart of their biological function. In the
1950's, he introduced the concept of induced fit in enzymatic
catalysis. Until then, proteins were thought to be rigid structures;
the interaction of substrates with enzymes was viewed in terms of the
lock-and-key analogy. Koshland showed that phosphoryl transfer
enzymes could not operate in this manner. Hexokinase, for example,
would rapidly hydrolyze ATP in the absence of glucose if active sites
were fully formed prior to the binding of their substrates. He
proposed that substrate binding is a dynamic process involving
conformational rearrangements of the enzyme. Koshland's highly
creative and original hypothesis was confirmed years later by x-ray
crystallographic studies. In many kinases, for example, the active
site cleft closes on binding substrate. Koshland's induced-fit model
stimulated many investigators to look for conformational changes in
protein function. It was a prescient concept that proved to be highly
fruitful, as exemplified by subsequent work showing that the activity
of many proteins is allosterically regulated.
Koshland's studies of bacterial chemotaxis have likewise been highly
incisive and significant. Bacteria move towards nutrients and away
from noxious substances. Does a bacterium compare the concentration
of an attractant at one end of a cell with that at the other or does
it compare the concentration of attractant now with that of a few
moments ago? In other words, is the sensing mechanism spatial or
temporal? In 1972, Koshland answered this central question by
carrying out an ingeniously simple experiment which revealed that
sensing is temporal: a bacterium detects a spatial gradient of
attractant not by comparing the concentration at its head and tail,
but by traveling through space and comparing its observations through
time. He subsequently purified several cell-surface chemoreceptors,
the first elements of the signal transduction system. Koshland's
biochemical analysis of these detectors demonstrated that they
integrate information impinging on the bacterium; their output is
determined by both repellent and attractant stimuli. He also found
that reversible methylation of these receptors enables bacteria to
adapt--that is, to respond to changes in the intensity of stimuli
rather than to their absolute level. Koshland's lucid analysis of the
molecular circuitry and logic of bacterial chemotaxis is a source of
inspiration to those seeking to understand the molecular neurobiology
of higher organisms.
Koshland has also contributed richly to the scientific life of the
country. He has done a superb job as Editor of Science since 1964.
He has attracted outstanding articles that communicate important
advances over the entire spectrum of science and reviews that present
their import to the nonspecialist. The reporting of public policy
issues has been accurate and perceptive. The cohesiveness of the
scientific community and public understanding and support for science
are critically dependent on effective communication. Koshland has
done this remarkably well while carrying out first-class research on
how molecules mediate sensory processes. Over several decades,
Koshland has combined the pursuit of the public good with inquiry into
fundamental processes of nature.
Mathematics
John McCarthy
Professor of Computer Science
Charles M. Pigott Professor in the School of Engineering
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
Citation:
For his fundamental contributions to computer
science and artificial intelligence, including
the development of the LISP programming
language; the mathematical theory of
computation; the concept and development of
time-sharing; the application of mathematical
logic to computer programs that use commonsense
knowledge and reasoning; and the naming and thus
the definition of the field of artificial
intelligence itself.
Summary of Achievements
John McCarthy has had an extraordinary impact on the field of
computer science, especially the field of artificial
intelligence. In fact, he gave the field of artificial
intelligence its name, coining the term in connection with the
Dartmouth Summer Research Project on Artificial Intelligence held
in the summer of 1956. McCarthy organized this seminar, the
first occasion that brought together most of the individuals
thinking about how to make computers behave intelligently.
Building on concepts embodied in other computer languages,
McCarthy's efforts to develop an algebraic programming language
for computation with symbolic expressions led in 1958 to the
development of LISP, the programming language that is even today
the most fundamental tool of those working in the field of
artificial intelligence.
McCarthy based LISP on his mathematical theory of computation, in
itself another substantial contribution to the field of computer
sciences. This theory provided the basis for one of two current
approaches to proving computer programs correct.
McCarthy also contributed to another fundamental conceptual
breakthrough in computer science, one that led to substantial
developments in the way we use computers: that of time-sharing.
McCarthy's initial proposals were further developed by others and
contributed to the development of time-sharing systems.
McCarthy's greatest scientific contribution is the "reasoning
program" approach to artificial intelligence pioneered in his
1960 paper on this subject, in which facts and problems are
presented as sentences of mathematical logic. McCarthy is today
the leader in the active field of common sense reasoning. His
papers on circumscription provide artificial intelligence with a
rigorous foundation for non-monotonic reasoning.
In summary, John McCarthy has made more fundamental contributions
to the fields of computer science and artificial intelligence
than any person living today.
Physical Sciences
Robert V. Pound
Mallinckrodt Professor of Physics Emeritus
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Citation:
For his pioneering experiments in nuclear magnetic
resonance, including the study of quadrupole
interactions and negative spin temperatures, and
for the demonstration of the gravitational shift
of 8 -ray photons.
Summary of Achievements
Robert Pound made major contributions to the development of radar
systems during World War II when he served on the staff of the MIT
Radiation Laboratory. He was responsible for balanced microwave
mixers and frequency stabilization of microwave oscillators. He is
the author of Volume 16 of the Radiation Laboratory Series (McGraw
Hill, New York, 1948) on "Microwave Mixers.
Pound's expertise, bordering on wizardry, in the field of electronics
also played a key role in the first successful experimental
demonstration of nuclear magnetic resonance in condensed matter. This
work was carried out jointly with E. M. Purcell and H. C. Torrey in
the fall of 1945 and published as a letter in the Physical Review in
January 1946. A similar demonstration was independently made at about
the same time by a group at Stanford University under the leadership
of the late Felix Bloch. It is a matter of record that F. Bloch and
E. M. Purcell shared the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1952 for this
discovery. Pound was also a coauthor of a fundamental paper on
"Relaxation Phenomena in Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Absorption, " with
N. Bloembergen and E. M. Purcell. This is one of the most frequently
quoted physics papers in the scientific literature and is often
referred to as BPP. Pound also developed the first tunable
radiofrequency spectrometer for the detection of nuclear magnetic
resonance. This device was for a number of years known as the "Pound
Box. He used it for a fundamental pioneering study of the effects of
nuclear electric quadrupole moments in magnetic resonance.
He joined E. M. Purcell and N. F. Ramsey in a series of basic
experiments, which introduced the concept of negative spin temperature
and inverted populations in magnetic resonance in the years 1950 and
1951. This work later stimulated the development of masers and
lasers. Another fundamental contribution by Dr. Pound is concerned
with the experimental demonstration of the gravitational red shift of
-ray photons and of the second order Doppler shift by thermal motion
of such photons. Pound pioneered studies of the Mossbauer effect in
the United States. Pound's extensive explorations in the fields of
magnetic resonance and the Mossbauer effects have been influential on
the national and international level.
Pound has a somewhat retiring personality, shunning the limelight, but
he has set an example of high moral standards in the profession. His
former Ph.D. students are now occupying leading positions at
educational and industrial research institutions in the United States.
His substantial contributions to physics and microwave technology have
strengthened the scientific prestige of the United States.
John D. Roberts
Institute Professor of Chemistry, Emeritus
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, CA
Citation:
For his pioneering studies in nuclear magnetic
resonance spectroscopy and reaction mechanisms in
organic chemistry.
Summary of Achievements
John Roberts has contributed to chemistry in an extraordinary range of
ways: as research scientist, as teacher at both the professional and
undergraduate levels, and as spokesman and senior statesman.
In research, Robert's work has defined what is now modern physical
organic chemistry: that is, a style of chemical research involving
the integration of molecular spectroscopy, quantum mechanics,
kinetics, and other techniques of physical chemistry with organic
synthesis, and application of this hybrid discipline to the study of
relations between the structure and reactivity and properties of
organic molecules. If the idea that organic chemistry and physical
chemistry share a common border now seems self-evident, it is in major
part because Roberts demonstrated the utility of research techniques
drawn from the latter in solving problems of the former.
His accomplishments in research are fundamental to modern organic
chemistry. Their pedagogical impact may be even more important than
the molecular detail they provide. The very idea that organic
chemists could actively and productively use quantitative spectroscopy
and calculational quantum mechanics in research was not part of the
organic paradigm before Roberts. His approach to these areas of
physical chemistry--to understand them in qualitative terms, to
demonstrate their value in practical mechanistic research, and to
explain them to others in terms simple enough for anyone to
understand--has been spectacularly successful. His short books on
molecular orbital calculations and spin-spin splitting were, for
example, remarkably influential in introducing these unfamiliar
techniques to a somewhat reluctant and apprehensive scientific
community.
Roberts brought his intellectual approach to chemistry to the
undergraduate level with his highly successful text with Margerie
Caserio. This book was one of the first to integrate spectroscopy,
reaction mechanisms, and more traditional subject material in an
undergraduate-level course. As such, it played a strong role in
shaping the current style of chemical teaching.
Over the years, Roberts has also played a central role in chemistry as
spokesman. His credentials as research scientist and teacher, his
familiarity with both academic and industrial research, and his
characteristically forceful, direct, and honest method of dealing with
people, all make him especially effective. In a world in which being
personally memorable is often as important as scholarship, Roberts
represented (and continues to represent) chemistry with great success.
Roberts' career has touched every aspect of chemistry. He is one of
the intellectual founders of modern chemical science, and a man who
has contributed very broadly to it.
Roberts, as much as any person, has defined the methods now used to
study complex molecular structures and reactions. His work has fused
organic chemistry and physical chemistry. The discipline that emerged
from his research--modern physical-organic chemistry--provides the
intellectual base for much of organic chemistry and biological
chemistry, and has been very influential in neighboring fields such as
polymer science, organometallic chemistry, catalysis, and materials
science. His books permanently changed the way in which chemists
thought about molecules.
He has been one of the most influential teachers and spokesmen for
chemistry for 30 years.
Behavioral/Social Sciences
Patrick Suppes
Lucie Stern Professor of Philosophy
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
Citation:
For his broad efforts to deepen the theoretical
and empirical understanding of four major areas:
the measurement of subjective probability and
utility in uncertain situations; the development
and testing of general learning theory; the
semantics and syntax of natural language; and
the use of interactive computer programs for
instruction.
Summary of Achievements
The scientific research of Patrick Suppes has concentrated on the
development and use of mathematical models in psychology and
related social sciences, together with extensive experimental
work testing the validity of various models. The research has
been mainly concentrated in four areas: (1) theory of
fundamental measurement with emphasis on measurement of
subjective probability and expected utility, as well as on
general foundational questions; (2) stochastic learning models,
especially those derived from stimulus-response theory; (3)
semantics and syntax of natural language, especially in
children's language; and (4) use of computers for instruction,
with emphasis on the development of interactive theorem provers,
and on relevant psychological models of performance and learning,
including the study of response latencies and eye movements. In
addition, Suppes has written a number of papers on axiomatic
methods in the empirical sciences including classical mechanics,
special relativity, and quantum mechanics.
Suppes' scientific contributions have led a major movement over a
four-decade period aimed at increasing the rigor, scope, and
depth of theoretical behavioral science, and he has exhibited an
unusually effective skill in interfacing original theory with
experiments. Beyond that he has been successful in making
applicable, via interactive computer programs, the knowledge he
and his colleagues have discovered about classroom learning. He
was a primary founder of the field of computer-assisted
instruction, but, unlike some others, his applied work has always
been informed by detailed, specific behavioral theories coupled
with extensive empirical data collected in his laboratories.
Initially, these applications took the form of demonstration
programs at various levels in the educational system. Ultimately
that led to the founding of a corporation that develops, tests,
and distributes complete computer systems to schools throughout
the world.
His is a most unusual blend of behavioral science scholarship and
research, of deep philosophical contributions, and
entrepreneurship. His breadth coupled with great scientific
depth should be a model to the young.
Biological Sciences
Herbert W. Boyer
Professor of Biochemistry and Biophysics
University of California
San Francisco, CA
Citation:
For his contributions to the basic research of
the development of recombinant DNA technology.
This seminal breakthrough has opened new vistas
in experimental biology, and it has led directly
to the development of the biotechnology
industry.
Summary of Achievements
Dr. Boyer was a pioneer and continues to be an authority in the
field of restriction endonucleases, the key enzymes necessary for
genetic engineering and biotechnology. These enzymes and the
technology of their use are basic to advances in the biomedical
sciences and their application to the study of human diseases.
In the early 1970's Dr. Boyer's laboratory discovered and
characterized the restriction endonuclease ECORI, whose unique
enzymatic properties provided the basis for the first genetic
engineering experiments. Together with Dr. Stanley Cohen's
laboratory at Stanford University, Dr. Boyer first demonstrated
that microbial genomes could be dissected in a precise fashion by
ECORI restriction endonuclease and then be recombined in vitro
with novel genomes. These new constructs could then be recovered
as viable replicating hybrids after being inserted into bacteria.
This project provided the springboard for the pioneering genetic
engineering of eucaryotic (non-microbial) genes with microbial
genes and their recovery as hybrid replicating genomes in
bacteria. This project demonstrated that non-microbial genes
could be "cloned" in bacteria and would replicate in perpetuity
by the bacterial cell. It was critical to demonstrate that (1)
the manipulation of the eucaroytic and microbial genes could be
managed to yield recombinant molecules in productive amounts, and
(2) that eucaryotic DNA would not be discriminated against by the
microbial-cell (i.e., it would be duplicated by the microbial
host's replication machinery). These experiments revolutionized
the biological and medical sciences as well as provided the
scientific basis for the "biotechnology industry." Until the
advent of this technology individual genes of multicellular
organisms could not be isolated and studied at the molecular
level. Herbert Boyer's group has continued to contribute to the
development of genetic engineering. They developed one of the
most widely used plasmid molecules for this technology and
pioneered the use of synthetic DNA in genetic engineering. This
led to the synthesis and expression of the gene for human
somatostatin - the achievement of the first synthesis of a human
protein in bacteria.
Dr. Boyer has continued to study the molecular mechanisms of the
action of restriction endonucleases and the functional role of
individual amino acids in those functions. More recently, in
collaboration with Dr. John Rosenberg of the University of
Pittsburgh, he and his colleagues have determined the first
three-dimensional structure of a protein-DNA cocrystal, the ECORI
endonuclease and its DNA substrate. The extension of this work
may provide new insights into the structural basis of enzyme
action and possibly, in the future, allow for the design of
synthetic endonucleases of new specificities.
Mathematics
George F. Carrier
T. Jefferson Coolidge Professor
of Applied Mathematics Emeritus
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Citation:
For his achievement and leadership in the
mathematical modeling of significant problems of
engineering science and geophysics, and their
solution by the application of innovative and
powerful analytical techniques.
Summary of Achievements
George Carrier has earned his reputation as a great applied
mathematician on the basis of his achievements in applying mathematics
to the solution of important and challenging problems of engineering
and geophysics. His remarkable skill in stripping nonessentials from
apparently intractable technical problems, formulating them
incisively, and then using imaginative and powerful mathematical
techniques to solve them has led to the understanding of a wide
variety of natural and man-made phenomena, ranging from supersonic
flow and combustion, to tornados and tsunamis, to firestorms and the
threat of nuclear winter. Deep physical insight into the underlying
physics and mechanics combined with extraordinary mathematical prowess
are the hallmarks of his many contributions, which characteristically
have produced concrete, technical results of direct relevance and
applicability to industry, the environment, and national defense. A
charismatic research mentor and teacher, Carrier has led generations
of applied mathematicians to the frontiers of their discipline,
showing through his papers, textbooks, and special lectures how
mathematics can do the very best for engineering and science.
In engineering science, Carrier has been active throughout his career
in the solution of significant technological problems. His very early
papers on the mechanics of the rolling of plastic materials had an
immediate industrial impact that led to extraordinary manufacturing
savings. He has made seminal contributions to the technologies of
viscometry, gyroscopy, and centrifugal isotope separation. Again,
early in his career, he initiated an enduring involvement in naval
matters by his pioneering studies of the effect of underwater
explosions of submarine shells. He was also an important contributor
to the engineering of space vehicles, dealing especially with problems
of atmospheric re-entry and the associated supersonic flow of
reacting, radiating gases and their interaction with ablating
structures. During the last quarter-century Carrier has produced a
major series of papers in the field of combustion, particularly
relevant to the performance of internal-combustion engines. Here
the full flower of Carrier's matchless talents has been brought to
bear on penetrating analyses of highly complex systems, involving
aerodynamic, chemical, and thermal processes in multiphase mixtures.
Carrier's manifold contributions to geophysics started in 1950, in his
paper on wind-driven circulation in ocean basins, and have continued
to this day. He has deduced quantitative results for the mixing of
ground and sea water that results from the diffusion of tides into
permeable islands (like Hawaii). His oceanographic studies have
explained the mechanics of water waves on sloping beaches and in
confined harbors, with results directly pertinent to ship handling and
deployment. He has analyzed the behavior of ocean currents, in
general, and the Gulf Stream in particular. He explained the dynamics
and evolution of tsunamis as they are generated by earthquakes, travel
across the ocean, and strike islands or continental boundaries. In
Carrier's atmospheric research, hurricanes and tornados have been of
special interest, and his comprehensive studies of the exceptionally
intricate energetics and motions of hurricanes as they interact with
land and sea are milestones of the field. Most recently, large fires,
firestorms, and, on a global scale, nuclear winter, have also received
the penetrating, insightful Carrier treatment.
As important as the impact has been of the many specific solutions to
scientific and technological problems that Carrier has produced, of
equal significance are his contributions to applied mathematics
itself. His problem-solving papers provide vivid illustrations of how
to invoke similarity, dimensional, and scaling considerations to
assess the relative importance of energies, forces, and responses
involved in complex phenomena, seeking out those that are essential
for basic understanding, and reserving for later elaboration those
that are less central; establishing succinct mathematical models and
formulations elegantly tailored to the problems under consideration;
exploiting, and often inventing, sophisticated mathematical techniques
to extract, with striking finesse, crisp quantitative solutions to the
governing differential and integral equations; and, finally, providing
perceptive interpretations of the results. Even more explicitly, he
has published and lectured widely on applied mathematical methods,
promulgating the boundary-layer approach, singular perturbation
methods, and complex variable techniques, among others. His papers
and lectures on methodology, as well as the three textbooks on applied
mathematics that he co-authored, have been extremely influential in
the training and education of applied mathematicians everywhere.
In summary, George Carrier has made vital and lasting contributions to
engineering science, geophysics, and applied mathematics. The
scientific and technical enterprise of the United States has benefited
enormously from his powerful physical insights and his superb
mathematical problem-solving skills. He has endowed engineers,
scientists, and mathematicians with these great gifts.
Edward B. Lewis
Thomas Hunt Morgan Professor of Biology Emeritus
California, Institute of Technology
Pasadena, CA
Citation:
For his demonstration and exploration of the
genetic control of the development of body
segments by homeotic genes.
Summary of Achievements
Edward Lewis, with exemplary insight, originality, personal commitment
and ingenuity has pursued the genetics of embryogenesis and
morphogenesis in Drosophila for four decades. During the first three
of those decades his work attracted comparatively little attention,
but this lack of trendiness did not discourage him. In recent years
the importance of Lewis' discoveries in the field of developmental
genetics has become widely recognized.
The Caltech biologist is noted for having discovered the Bithorax
Complex, a cluster of master regulatory genes that controls much of
the growth and development of the organism, starting very early in
embryonic life. Lewis showed that mutations in these so-called
homeotic genes result in one body part being changed into another
homologous part. From this he inferred that the normal homeotic genes
carry out a more profound function: control of the normal
organization of the body and all its parts.
Lewis' extensive genetic analysis of the Bithorax Complex encouraged
David Hogness and his colleagues at Stanford University to choose it
as the target for the first attempt to clone homeotic genes. The
techniques and concepts developed in the ensuing collaboration of the
Lewis and Hogness laboratories have guided the entire field since
then. One of the most important consequences of this work, and one
that Lewis predicted in a general way long ago, was the finding of a
region of homology among many homeotic genes, the so-called homeobox.
The study of homeobox-containing proteins, which have also been found
in mice and human beings, is one of the most active areas in biology
today; and it owes its origins and growth to the remarkable work of
Lewis.
Edward Lewis is a scientist's scientist. His work, done mostly by his
own hand, constitutes a landmark contribution to biology. It has
opened up a vast field of intense activity in the area of
developmental biology of a wide range of organisms. As a human being
of conscience and dedication, he ranks at the top.
chemistry
Elkan R. Blout
Professor and Director, Division of Biological Sciences
Harvard School of Public Health
and
Edward S. Harkness Professor of Biological Chemisty
Harvard Medical School
Boston, MA
Citation:
For his pioneering studies of protein conformation
and devotion to the scientific enterprise of this
Nation.
Summary of Achievements
Elkan Blout was one of the originators of the proposition that
poly-α-amino acids would be excellent models of proteins for physical
chemical and biological studies. This insight into the possibility of
using these as protein models proved to be fruitful beyond one's
greatest expectations. The first X-ray crystal structure of thea -
helix was performed on a poly-α-acid, proving Pauling's hypothesis.
Through his efforts, all the conformations of proteins, the a-
helix, ß-sheet, and random coil, became available for very fruitful
studies. A survey of the literature today would discover that the
number of papers on poly-α-amino acids to be between 10,000 and
20,000. Thus he produced some of the seminal papers on this topic
which became a field unto itself.
Another field in which Dr. Blout was an innovative founder was the use
of optical rotatory dispersion and circular dichroism to determine the
conformation of proteins. His papers of the 1950's showed the great
potential of using the chiroptical properties of proteins to measure
their conformation and the conformational changes they were capable of
undergoing. This seminal work has likewise blossomed forth, and today
the most popular and widely used method to determine the secondary
structure of polypeptides (e.g. hormones) and proteins is circular
dichroism.
A third area to which Dr. Blout has contributed significantly is in
the synthesis and study of cyclic peptides for the study of
-turns in proteins. As approximately one third of the amino acid
residues in globular proteins reside in -turns, this work has
developed into another active field in the protein conformation area.
In an age of microspecialization in science, researchers like Elkan
Blout stand out as examples of how a truly innovative and inquisitive
mind can make major contributions to a variety of scientific fields.
Engineering
Nick Holonyak, Jr.
Center for Advanced Study
Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering
University of Illinois
Urbana, IL
citation:
For his contributions as one of the Nation's most
prolific inventors in the area of semiconductor
materials and devices, and for his role as
research mentor while working at the forefront of
solid-state science and technology.
Summary of Achievements
Nick Holonyak is an outstanding experimental physicist who combines a
sound understanding of solid-state physics with a remarkable intuition
for how this knowledge can be fruitfully applied. His several hundred
publications and patents are evidence of his exceptional productivity.
Time and again Dr. Holonyak has come up with an idea or learned
something that might perhaps be possible, and in a few days he would
have it running in his laboratory. He is friendly and enthusiastic,
easy to talk with, and absolutely honest. Throughout his teaching
career he has turned out a steady stream of excellent students, which
speaks well for his ability as an instructor.
Dr. Holonyak was not only the coinventor of the PNPN thyristor, he was
largely responsible for its development from a laboratory curiosity
into the basic component of electrical power control equipment, now
widely used in HVDC power transmission and variable speed motor
controls.
His academic career has been directed mainly to advancing the
understanding of electrooptical phenomena in III-V semiconductor
devices, and in crystal preparation techniques which have led to
efficient light emission and laser operation in the visible region of
the spectrum. Quaternary alloys of III-V semiconductors were
developed by his group as a means of varying the energy gap without
introducing lattice strain. He and his students have conducted
extensive investigations of quantum-well phenomena associated with
direct and indirect band edges in these semiconductor systems and have
applied these results to the fabrication of lasers in a wide variety
of III-V alloy systems.
Dr. Holonyak's many accomplishments in advancing scientific knowledge
in solid-state physics, his application of this understanding to the
fabrication of operational devices, and his ability have inspired his
students toward comparable achievements.
Behavioral/Social Sciences
Leonid Hurwicz
Curtis L. Carlson Professor of Economics
Regents' Professor Emeritus
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN
Citation:
For his pioneering work on the theory of modern
decentralized allocation mechanisms.
Summary of Achievements
Leonid Hurwicz has made foundational contributions to econometrics,
demand theory, optimization theory, and stability theory. However, he
is probably best known for his pioneering work on the theory of
decentralized allocation mechanisms. He formalized the now
conventional approach of making the allocation mechanism a variable,
rather than a datum. Although previous authors had extolled the
informational efficiency of the market mechanism, Hurwicz was the
first to formalize this property and determine the implicit
assumptions underlying the validity of the arguments. Hurwicz
provided the first proof of the information efficiency of the
competitive allocation mechanism.
Hurwicz informally emphasized the importance of individual incentives
in determining the actual behavior of allocation mechanisms. He
formally modelled the concept of "incentive-compatibility" and showed
that for finite economies, the market mechanism is not incentive-
compatible. The model Hurwicz introduced was based on the idea that
an individual may safely manipulate an allocation mechanism by
pretending to be a nonmanipulative individual with different private
characteristics, much as a prospective buyer will pretend to have only
mild interest and limited means during purchase negotiations. The
market mechanism is not incentive-compatible when individuals acting
in this fashion can have a perceptible influence on prices. An
allocation mechanism is incentive-compatible only if it provides no
incentives for this sort of manipulation. Hurwicz showed that no
decentralized allocation mechanism which achieves Pareto optimal
allocations for finite neoclassical environments can be incentive-
compatible.
This concept of incentive-compatibility was later applied to voting
mechanisms where it led to an important line of research in social
choice theory. Subsequently, the concept was applied to Bayesian
models, where it continues to stimulate a huge volume of published
research. Hurwicz's model of a decentralized allocation mechanism
also lends itself to the study of less sophisticated forms of self-
interest. This idea was pursued by Hurwicz and others to obtain more
positive results on the possibility of incentive-compatible allocation
mechanisms. This indicates that their appearance was a major event in
the history of economic thought.
In addition to his seminal papers, Hurwicz has continued to contribute
to subsequent developments in the areas of informational efficiency
and incentive-compatibility. His courses and lectures in the U.S. and
abroad have promoted the importance of research in these areas and
encouraged the interest of numerous students and younger scholars.
It is problematic to attribute to a single individual the foundational
ideas for a body of research as vast as modern decentralization
theory. However, to the extent that this can be done, there is no
doubt that the individual is Leonid Hurwicz.