In this panel discussion, as one of the important problems in science and technology policy in Japan, the problem how to encourage basic research was discussed. The following is a summary of the opinions which were expressed. Because of restrictions on the government 's budget, increasing funding in fields of basic research is difficult. Does a social climate exist, to encourage individuals to devote themselves to basic research as their lives work? In investment, strategies based on a long-term view aren't taken into consideration at all. Basic research is not a learning of the fundamental science and technology as practiced in Japan (e.g., basic research for exercises), but original work which tries to discover unknown facts (e.g., competitive basic research). Experiments are needed most in basic research. The methods of instruction, which is valued in traditional cultural climate in Japan, hinders originality. This process should be reconsidered.
