Trends in Research in the Division of Entomology

Extract

The research program of the Division of Entomology is steadily evolving as surely as are the insects themselves. The broad outlines of today's program have been shaped through the years by central administrative policies, by the nature and significance of the problems encountered, and by the pressure of public demand; the detail has been affected primarily by the availability of trained staff and research facilities, by the quality of local leadership, and by pertinent developments in sister sciences. All of these are continuing influences, which, together with important recent developments and some weighty unpredictables, will determine the nature and scope of tomorrow's program. But certain trends in research seem clear. The subject is discussed under three main headings, with a final summarizing statement.