Sustainable Development: Why Basic Science has been the Curse and is the Cure

Almost all aspects of global development, including economic, social, environmental, and even political progress, can arguably be traced back to discoveries in basic science. Basic science, originating from the curiosity and perseverance of pioneering minds, involves asking seemingly simple questions with complex answers, thereby laying the foundation for research. Scientific inquiry: the systematic search for evidence to validate or refute hypotheses, is a process that has evolved over time to incorporate structured approaches such as hypothesis testing. However, contemporary scientific research has increasingly become intertwined with considerations of potential benefits, societal impacts, and economic returns, often driving funding decisions. This trend raises questions about the commodification of scientific research and its potential impact on the pursuit of fundamental knowledge. Moreover, the decline in purely exploratory research coincides with the world's drift towards unsustainable practices. The question arises: has the methodical approach and emphasis on tangible outcomes contributed to the diminishing role of basic science? Conversely, could a resurgence in basic science research offer insights and solutions for a more sustainable future? By prioritizing curiosity-driven inquiry and revisiting the roots of scientific discovery, there is potential to unlock novel solutions and inform sustainable development strategies. Thus, a reinvigorated commitment to basic science research may hold the key to addressing the challenges of sustainability and fostering global development in innovative ways.