Japan’s Ministry of International Trade and Industry has submitted its budget proposals to the Finance Ministry and, as usual, they provide a strong indication of the fields Japan intends to concentrate on next. Among the hot topics targeted by MITI are:
" Artificial intelligence—MITI recommends that a study group of computer experts be convened to examine new approaches, such as neural network computers, which could be used to build a machine that imitates human thought.
" Superconductivity—The agency calls for a beefing up of research in superconductors and increased support for Tokyo’s International Superconductivity Technology Center.
" Biotechnology—The ministry proposes increased funding for the Human Frontiers Science project, which will support biological research around the world. The Finance Ministry’s response is due in December.
Does last month’s landmark announcement by Princeton, N.J.’s Chronar Corp. of plans to build a 50-megawatt photovoltaic power station near Los Angeles mean that the dark ...
