Knowledge as Power: Science, Military Dominance, and U.S. Security

Robert Paarlberg of Wellesley College investigates factors behind the “unparalleled military dominance” of the United States and challenges to it in a post–September 11 world. Chief among these is the overwhelming U.S. lead in science and research and development. Paarlberg cautions that the combination of globalization and restrictions on foreign scientists seeking visas to study or work in the United States since the September 11 terrorist attacks threatens to undercut U.S. scientific leadership and, thus, military hegemony. He closes with a discussion of the dangers of the current situation for homeland security.