PURE AND APPLIED MYCOLOGY

Pure research is defined as experimental or theoretical work undertake n primarily to acquire new knowledge without any particular applicatio n or use in view. By contrast, applied research, which, of course, is also undertaken to acquire new knowledge, is directed primarily toward s practical aims or objectives. In recent years governments worldwide have used Technology Foresight Exercises, to enable them to direct bas ic research in universities towards areas of science with commercial p otential. There is, of course, but a short step between this approach and the direct involvement of universities in applied research. Using examples from four areas of research in mycology, this article advocat es the need to maintain a broad base of pure (curiosity-driven) resear ch in universities and research institutes, as well as identifying a n eed for government to provide additional funding for areas of research perceived to be of national importance.