Back to Show
PBS News Hour
Can public R&D investment revitalize a lagging economy?
The U.S. government spends about 0.7 percent of GDP on scientific research and development, down from 2 percent in the 1960s. Less investment means fewer chances for breakthroughs like the weapon-seeking robots that saved thousands of soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan -- and created a new consumer products category. Economics correspondent Paul Solman reports on an effort to jump-start public R&D.
Sign up now for inspiring and thought-provoking media delivered straight to your inbox.
Support Provided By

57:46
May 7, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode

57:46
May 6, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode

57:46
May 5, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode

26:45
May 4, 2025 - PBS News Weekend full episode

26:44
May 3, 2025 - PBS News Weekend full episode

56:45
May 2, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode

56:42
May 1, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode

56:44
April 30, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode

56:45
April 29, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode

56:45
April 28, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode

26:45
April 27, 2025 - PBS News Weekend full episode

26:45
April 26, 2025 - PBS News Weekend full episode