MSA's basic "Public Policy" agenda is one of "Science Advocacy", albeit focused on the continued and improved public support of, and funding for, instrumentation in general and microscopy in particular. While this usually refers to educational efforts directed towards members of congress, it is equally important at the state and local levels. Underlying this are two fundamental issues: the inherent responsibility and duty of scientists who feed at the public trough to voluntarily inform the public of the (published) results of its investment, and secondly the erasure of the often-held public perception of scientific hubris. Thus it is not only a matter of taking the time to visit your local Congressperson or Senator when in Washington but proactively taking the initiative to visit with elected representatives and administrative officials at state capitols. Washington visits are a very important activity that can be more speedily facilitated through contacts at most of the larger scientific societies such as AAAS, NAS, FASEB and the APS (see Useful Links on the first page of the MSA public policy page and http://www.aip.org/enews/fyi/1998/fyi98.072.htm). Much of this can be done individually or also in conjunction with a Local Affiliate Society. For example, inviting a Congressperson, or a member of his/her staff to visit several laboratories at your university, institute or company is one effective way of educating Congress. They pay attention to constituents.

Similarly, organizing or participating in science (microscopy) programs at local grade schools will pay huge dividends for the future (witness MSA's "Project MICRO" program). Another area often overlooked is communication with science writers and broadcasters. This can be a particularly effective means of disseminating information especially when some controversial issues are under discussion nationally; the public wants to understand where scientists are coming from and they in turn can (and will) call or write their political representatives. A letter to the editor from you or your LAS can be very effective.

For an interesting discussion on the responsibilities of scientists, see an article by William D. Carey, American Scientist, 76, No. 2, 143 - 145, (1988)