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The Pros And Cons Of Blue-Sky Research

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By “blue-sky” research, Sir John Vane means researching and spending time partaking in activities that a person is genuinely interested in, not wasting time on activities with a goal of reaching an end-product or result. Rather than using research as a means of self indulgence, Sir John Vane uses the notion of blue-sky research to instead participate in what one is interested in. Advantages to blue-sky research include the development of Bayer aspirin and its’ effects on society today. Through genuine interest, Felix Hoffman was able to stumble upon the creation of aspirin, something beneficial to millions today. Ian Frazier connects blue-sky research to playing in the woods with an explanation of marginal activities. Marginal activities are activities that certain members of society, depending on their place or age, participate in with genuine interest and enjoyment. For example, an adult would not be seen playing in the woods, as opposed to a child. Inversely, a child would not be seen studying about the stock exchange. With these supposed cultural constructs, Ian Frazier reminisces about when he would play in the woods with genuine interest and satisfaction. Ian Frazier’s marginal activity connects to Sir John Vane’s blue-sky research through the fact that both include genuine, satisfying activities that enrich the community. As explained in Sir John Vane’s essay, “Blue-Sky Research,” such research “[holds] great promise for the community,” helping reverse today’s “urgency to show a return,” (346). Because of Frazier’s enjoyment, playing in the woods was not a rushed activity, connecting to blue-sky research and helping push Sir John Vane’s philosophy.
I agree that without such research, society would indeed be poorer, as would be our health. Blue-sky research is needed for the betterment of society today. Without a genuine interest or satisfaction in an activity, one would not have a place or fit in society. Going to work somewhere dreadful may be possible through the eyes of some, but those same people still go somewhere after work fueled with enjoyment and genuine interest, ready to be partake in a hobby and start the highlight of the day. The specific activity, however, is usually up to the person

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