Without a way to measure their success, Japanese projects are very hard to stop

Article Abstract:

Japan's penchant for carrying on with large-scale research projects without subjecting them to proper assessment was exemplified by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry's plan to continue its fifth-generation computer project. The earthquake prediction program and the nuclear-powered research ship Mutsu are further examples of big national projects that have continued to receive government support despite lackluster results. The government's preference for obtaining evaluations of projects from insiders rather than from independent researchers is the main reason for this tendency.

Author: Swinbanks, David
Computers, Digital computers, Japan. Ministry of International Trade and Industry

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Japanese report shows cracks in predicting earthquakes

Article Abstract:

Representatives of Japan's earthquake prediction scientists confessed in a Ministry of Education, Science and Culture report that the country's 30-year effort at forecasting earthquakes has made no progress. The report declares that the attempt to identify particular observations as harbingers of earthquakes has failed and that foreign seismologists were right in declaring that predicting earthquakes was not feasible. This is a startling admission since Japan annually spends $56 million dollars on earthquake prediction.

Author: Swinbanks, David
Reports, Japan. Ministry of Education, Science, Sports and Culture, Earthquake prediction

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Japanese physicists say SSC will hurt domestic research

Article Abstract:

Japanese high-energy physicists are concerned that the proposed $1.5 billion contribution to the US Superconducting Super Collider (SSC) construction will be taken from domestic physics projects and adversely affect Japanese science. Domestic physics priorities include a B-meson factory and supporters believe those projects will be undercut by the SCC. However, government officials say the funds will not be available for domestic projects whether or not SSC funding is cancelled.

Author: Swinbanks, David
Finance, Particles (Nuclear physics), Subatomic particles, Superconducting Super Collider

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Subjects list: Research, Japan, Science and technology policy
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