> I strongly suspect the rational amount to spend on it is "everything we can". By saying “everything,” you’re dodging the question of what sacrifices we shoul

> I strongly suspect the rational amount to spend on it is "everything we can". By saying “everything,” you’re dodging the question of what sacrifices we should make to speed up basic science research. How do you draw the line between what we can and can’t afford? Should we require everyone to pursue a Master’s degree? A PhD? Do we shut down university humanities departments? Do we halt all production that doesn’t directly support the basic sciences? Do we reduce food production to only that which is needed to support the scientific staff? Some or all of these suggestions are probably beyond your idea of what’s acceptable. If so, you agree that there is some price that is too great to pay. The interesting question isn’t whether there’s a limit, it’s what it is.