Summary:
- This article discusses the importance of curiosity-driven research, which led to the recent development of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19.
- Curiosity-driven research, also known as basic or fundamental research, aims to expand our understanding of the world without a specific application in mind. This type of research has been crucial for many major scientific breakthroughs.
- The article warns that funding for curiosity-driven research is under threat, as governments and funding agencies often prioritize research with immediate, practical applications. This could limit future scientific progress and medical advancements.