The Impact of Science on Society.

The impact of science on society is examined in this publication's coverage of a series of public lectures that commemorated the 25th anniversary of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Edited versions of four speeches are presented which address the impact of science on society from the time of humanity's first significant scientific invention to that of expected future scientific advances. The papers include: (1) "The Legacy of Science" by British historian James Burke; (2) "Accomplishments of Science by the Year 2000" by television science editor and reporter Jules Bergman; (3) "Our Future in the Cosmos--Computers" by scientist and science fiction writer Dr. Isaac Asimov; and (4) "Our Future in the Cosmos--Space" also by Dr. Isaac Asimov. Audience questions and lecturer responses follow each of the papers. Biographical sketches of each presenter are also included. (ML)