[RightWhale]

We are not spending enough money on government science!

An interesting assertion, although unrelated to the precedent ironic observations.

[AndrewC]

An interesting assertion, although unrelated to the precedent ironic observations.

I think that was needed to make his point(IOW it was related). It is akin to the assertion that we need to spend more money on "Art" and "education". The education system is the epitome of the "spend the people's money" approach. If you spend money and the spending achieves your goal, spend more money for even more benefits. If you spend money and the results are not achieved, spend even more money to fix the "problem".

[Gary Boldwater]

Take a pause and think for a bit. I believe it is related, the more money spent the lower return per dollar.

Look at Russian scientists in the 60's, 70's and 80's. Not much money for equipment, but they really had a hand up on their American counterparts in theoretical knowledge.