Spectral lines: Technology transfer at issue

Some problems have to permanent solutions. Controlling the transfer of militarily useful technology over international borders is one of them. Admiral Bobby Inman expressed it well when he said, "There is an overlap between technological information and national security which produces tension. This tension results from the scientists' desire for unconstrained research and publication on the one hand and the Federal government's need to protect certain information from potential foreign adversaries who might use that information against this nation. Both are powerful forces." The task, Adm. Inamn said, is finding a workable and just balance between them.