You report that the British Social Attitudes survey asked the public to indicate their degree of pride in the UK’s achievements in the arts and literature, sport, history, democracy, political influence and economic achievements (‘Somewhat more critical’: pride in Britain’s history falls sharply in survey, 3 September). It is appalling, but unsurprising, that science was not in this list.
The UK has an astounding record of scientific excellence – by many measures the best in the world. It excels in both the fundamental science that wins Nobel prizes and in the practical use of it for the benefit of mankind. And often with investment that is far below the international competition.
