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Bill Foster on the Value of Science Literacy in Congress

Bill Foster

Bill Foster is one of only two members of Congress with a Ph.D. and a background in natural science, and he said that lack of scientists in politics is not helping public policy.

A physicist turned politician, Foster spoke on “Life as a Scientist in Congress” Thursday at the School of Law. The talk was sponsored by the Duke Initiative for Science and Society.

Foster’s message was that the US needs more scientists involved in public life, particularly as rapid advancements in science are raising large social and political questions that require good public policies.

Prior to his career in politics, Foster spent 22 years at Fermilab leading teams in high-energy physics and particle acceleration where his work led to the discovery of the top quark and the design of particle accelerators still in use today.

He said his switch from particle physics to politics was driven by the question of what fraction of his life is he spending in service to his fellow man. 

He represents the 11th Congressional District of Illinois and serves on the House Financial Services Committee and Committee on Science and Space Technology.

Below, Foster talks with Duke students following the lecture. Photos by Ben Shepard, Duke Initiative for Science & Society

bill foster