# $4 billion for math and science By Murray Bourne, 24 Nov 2009 In yesterday's Computerworld article, Obama backs U.S. return to math, science, tech, we read that the US government has pledged$4.35 billion for a "Race to the Top" fund. The idea is to give proper recognition for STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) achievements.

I liked this part:

Obama said students who design the best experiment, hardware or software deserve the same recognition that athletes receive.

Unfortunately, just throwing money at the problem (of low takeup in the math and science fields) won't make it go away. The Asians are leading the world in science and technology because it pervades the very fabric of society. Nerds are respected, not treated with disdain like in the West.

I wish Obama well. At least he is making the right noises on this issue.

### 2 Comments on “\$4 billion for math and science”

1. Sue VanHattum says:

>Nerds are respected, not treated with disdain like in the West.

Obama might help with that problem too, just by being president. He's the sweetest, cutest nerd around, isn't he?

I can just imagine other people making fun of him when he was young for being 'too serious'.

2. Murray says:

Not sure I ever thought of Obama as a "cute nerd" before, but I see your point, Sue!

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