JayS:
^ More money for research, health care, education, social security, infrastructure, police, fire, prisons, defense… the government isn’t some magic ATM machine.
Private industry and the drive for new products that create new profits will always push innovation faster than government money, all without without burdening the taxpayer. I’m not saying the government shouldn’t fund research because they should. Billions in research grants just for nanotechnology if you look at the link I posted earlier. Unfortunately any time the government gives out money there is always someone wanting more. I’m fine with giving more to research if you cut more from bloated social programs. Just don’t give more and then raise taxes or fees to pay for it.
And nanotechnology has advanced well past stain proof pants.Top Five Nanotech Breakthroughs Of 2006
I don’t think you actually understand that the end result (a “breakthrough”) is just the tip of years of effort and experience. Money is a poor motivator if the ends are distant. In this stage, a desire to understand is much better.
Our understanding expands at a glacial pace.