John H. Marburger was Former President of Stony Brook University, Director of Brookhaven National Laboratory, and Science Advisor to President George W. Bush. Robert P. Crease is Professor of Philosophy at Stony Brook University and Co-Editor-in-Chief of Physics in Perspective.
Among [Marburger’s papers] is a long, beautiful letter to a high
school student who requested information about the controversial
nuclear reactor at Brookhaven National Laboratory. The response not
only clearly lays out the pros and cons of the reactor but also
considers how a ‘reasonable’ person should evaluate a controversy,
and is characteristic of Marburger’s careful presentation of all
sides and societal context… This book will prove valuable to those,
like Marburger, concerned with the interaction between science and
society.
*Choice*
Marburger examines the interface between science and government
through the prism of several complex situations in which he played
a central role. The lucid ‘memos to self’ and public addresses give
valuable insights into science policy development over 30 years,
and how it must evolve in future.
*Paul Grannis, Distinguished Research Professor, Stony Brook
University*
An extremely valuable contribution.
*Roger Pielke, Jr., Professor and Director, Center for Science and
Technology Policy Research, University of Colorado*
As a science policy actor on the American stage, Jack Marburger
combined the requisite technical expertise with less common
virtues: humility and a genuine respect for the views and concerns
of citizens. This combination of assets imbued him with an uncommon
capacity to navigate politically difficult issues, from
controversies over nuclear energy to the divisive politics of the
George W. Bush administration. Marburger’s writings thus provide
not just a valuable insider’s view of the art of science policy
making, but a civics lesson on what it takes to be an effective
public servant.
*Daniel Sarewitz, Professor of Science and Society, Arizona State
University*
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