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"Science knows no country, because knowledge belongs to humanity, and is the torch which illuminates the world." French chemist and microbiologist Louis Pasteur said this more than a century ago. It's still true. Our "Science Knows No Boundaries" web site highlights this international nature of science—and the importance of math and science education. Because of their strong skills in math and science, researchers around the world can rise beyond national boundaries to solve problems shared by all people. Every day, news headlines report stories on genetic engineering breakthroughs, space probes, medicines unknown a decade ago, and many other scientific advances and issues. Some advances are so widely used that they are no longer newsworthy. Millions use computers at home or work. They drive cars that use computer chips. They get weather reports from satellite data. Where will tomorrow's breakthroughs come from? Just as in every other country, young people in the United States are the Nation's future parents, voters, workers, leaders—and scientists. All our students, regardless of race, gender or ethnicity, must have access to high quality math and science education. This not only is crucial to help students understand and evaluate today’s headlines. It also is excellent preparation for taking part, tomorrow, in the world’s marketplace. With math and science education, our students can tackle scientific issues of global concern such as poverty, hunger, disease, environmental quality, and sustainable energy production and use. In the 21st century, math and science knowledge is a key to becoming a responsible citizen of a country—and a planet. This is as true for agricultural uses of science—arguably the oldest of human technologies—as for uses that take people to outer space or that cure killer diseases on Earth.
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