The days of unquestioned American dominance over the world are over. Other countries seem to be pushing their way onto the global scene, edging America out. One reason that America seems to be losing its edge is due to  the lack of emphasis on an education in science and mathematics. However, India and China are churning out scientists and engineers at an unprecedented pace.

Companies are importing workers and exporting their research and development to other nations.

The U.S. has always been the main source of innovation in the modern world. Most of the advancements have improved the global quality of life.

However, as we lose our ability to compete with the number of foreign scientists, America is making fewer innovations. The world’s future economy will will be determined by the nation that takes advantage of new ideas and technologies. In the near future “green technology” will likely explode as the need  and demand for environmental stewardship grows.

The world knows it is on the brink of an era of explosive research and growth. Green technology, as it is known, is seen as the saving grace of the world. Whether or not people believe in global warming, they cannot deny the economic power that these technologies will garner. Whatever nation is in control and has ownership of a majority of innovations  will have a distinct economic advantage,

Due to a number of factors, the number of American students who pursue an education in mathematics and science is declining. Many Americans believe that the U.S has no other superpower or dominant nation to compete with. During the Cold War, there was massive amount of innovation in America.During that time, the Soviet Union was an obvious competitor for international power.

The U.S. won the Cold War, partly due the government’s stability and the countries ability to absorb massive debt, which the arms race incurred.

Today, American culture is spreading through the world. Kids everywhere are wearing the latest fashion and listening to American music.

However, popular culture could influence our perception of careers in the scientific field.

Pop culture often portrays  scientists and researchers as boring and socially incompetent. They are usually the ones at the butt end of jokes and can never seem to find a date. This alone might be enough to keep the impressionable youth  away. Children do not want to do something that will make them supposed nerds in society.

Whatever the cause, it is clear something needs to be done, whether it be including youth based programs, government spending or increasing parental guidance.

First off, the government can ensure an education in science and mathematics  is a major priority in our schools. There also should be an increase in the amount of science based after school programs schools offer.

Highschool students are the ones who need a targeted education the most. The kids who are about to enter college need to understand these fields offer a solid career.

Parents should also make sure their kids understand that experts in the scientific and mathematical field are not nerdy and are responsile for much of the positive change that occurs in the world.