Kennedy Sees Hope In Atomic Challenge

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30270, 24 October 1963, Page 15

Kennedy Sees Hope In Atomic Challenge

(NZ. Press Association-Copyright)

WASHINGTON, October 22. President Kennedy today expressed hope that science will lead mankind out of the destructive era of the atom into “the happiest society the world has ever known,” United Press International reported. Mr Kennedy, in a speech to the National Academy of Sciences, emphasised the need for greater international scientific understanding. “Recent scientific advances have not only made international co-operation desirable but have made international institutions necessary,” he said. The challenge produced by the development of atomic weapons might be the world’s ultimate salvation. “As we begin to master the destructive potentialities of modern science we move toward a new era in which science can fulfil its creative promises and help bring into existence the happiest society the world has ever known,” he said. Mr Kennedy suggested these four major topics for consideration of the scientific community:- * Conser v a t i o n and development of natural resources.

Study and use of the sea’s resources. Accelerated studies of the atmosphere, particularly in weather observation. Controlling the effects of scientific experimentation. He referred particularly to radio-active contamination resulting from nuclear testing.