Fundamental Research

Name:
Fundamental Research
Detailed information:
(basic research). Scientific investigations undertaken primarily to increase knowledge of a given field on a long-range basis. It is free from the time factor usually present in applied research and is comparatively unlimited by economic restrictions. In general, it seeks basic causes for phenomena rather than immediate results. It has no predetermined goal or purpose. Nonetheless, tremendous achievements in chemistry and other sciences have resulted, and it will always remain the essential cornerstone of science. “Fundamental research is essentially a matter of inquiring into nature. The motivation for this activity is only imperfectly understood but it is primarily an intellectual pursuit. Unlike applied research, the reward being sought is attained through the ability to understand and explain natural phenomena. The interest centers on elucidating the laws of nature, not on manipulating or exploiting them” (Howard McMahon).