'Ocean, wherein the whale 

 Swims minnow-small." 



WILLIAM ROSE BENET 



Chapter II 



A PERSPECTIVE FOR MARINE 

 SCIENCE AFFAIRS 



Marine Science Affairs — the title chosen for these Reports — denotes the 

 evolving relationship between marine sciences and the affairs of man. The 

 increasing relevance of marine sciences to our society leads us first to con- 

 sider the broad political, economic, and social fabric of our Nation's 

 activities, and then to define how the oceans may provide alternative ways 

 to achieve our goals and aspirations. Marine research and development 

 programs are visualized as means rather than ends. Thus, progress in marine 

 science affairs requires us to define public purposes and to formulate public 

 policies that will guide and stimulate our scientific and engineering efforts 

 to realize the ocean's potential benefits. 



The major challenges that lie ahead do not terminate at the water's edge. 

 Neither do their solutions. As the world population outraces its food supply, 

 the sea offers the possibility of significant new sources for food. As world 

 requirements for energy and minerals grow faster than population, ocean 

 resources hold the promise of additional riches. As coastal cities become even 

 more crowded, the oceans can enhance the quality of urban living, particu- 

 larly if the natural heritage of our shoreline is preserved and if there are 

 new opportunities for people to refresh themselves at the seashore. Finally, 

 as the world community of nations continues to explore new avenues to 

 peace, the ocean suggests additional patterns of cooperation which can 

 contribute to world order and understanding. 



15 



