Why government MUST invest in fundamental research

Basic research is not a place where “the market” tends to show interest.

Problem number one is that it typically takes 20-30 years – in best case scenario to see “returns” on fundamental discoveries. Often discoveries pave the way to other discoveries, and so forth, which eventually trickle down to technological applications – often unintended or unforeseen.

Find me a company that is willing to invest in a project with no hope of return for 20-30 years and I have a bridge in Alaska I want to sell you.