Federal Policy Making: Perspectives from Inside and Outside Government

Federal policy decision making is influenced by many factors and actors, including science and the scientific community. Drivers, incentives, and metrics vary among stakeholders inside and outside of government, which can make it difficult to find a mutually agreeable path. Yet action can be swift when what is made possible by science and technology (S&T) intersects a national need or threat. Policy makers in government must keep abreast of S&T advances relevant to their mission, whereas those outside government who seek to influence policy must be credible and understand how the various parts and agencies of government work. The process of federal policy making will be explored through examples, ranging from microelectronics to nanotechnology to quantum technology.