Hi EQF, I partly agree with parts of your dark ages posts. Others: I say partly agree: for parts I would not go so far. I am rather pessimistic about science funding: I think it will have to be cut sharply if there unless Bush tax cuts are allowed to expire, and other revenue enhancements (tax increases or loophole closing) occurs. And, sure, many Republicans are happy to let the less fortunate fend for themselves, perhaps on some premise like they are lazy(?).

My proposals, whether I am lead or a helper-bee, tend to be int he gray area for funding, so a 10% cut in NSF Earth Science or Marine Geology and Geophysics may be the difference between a salary and no salary for me. right now, I have zero salary, but that is partly by design so I can write papers and finish getting caught up.

Chris