Science fairs are gathering places for top-notch scientists, leading technologists, science educators, high-level science policy makers, and artists whose work is inspired by science.

Not only is there the opportunity for observation and hands-on experimentation, but there are important lectures and workshops that expose the public to new developments in science and technology.

Governments would be interested in science fairs for two sound, but opposing reasons. They can court authoritative figures and science talents to put their knowledge to use for the government. Imagine where government agencies like intelligence offices would be if they didn't have the technologies that have been bred at science fairs. Researchers and other science authorities have historically advanced our knowledge about the possibilities of our world in order to advance humanity. Recruiting the best employees strengthens the government's ability to run a top-notch business operation.

The other benefit of science fairs for governments is it allows a peek at inventions and technologies that might threaten the national security of the country. Sometimes scientists engineer technologies that would be dangerous in the wrong hands. Observing science in its developmental stage - or art and films that suggest dangerous possibilities about science to the public - gives the government a chance to partner with scientists to protect its constituents. It also gives attending policy-makers a chance to anticipate public fallout around new inventions.

Learn more about this author, Cherryl Floyd-Miller.
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