Poultry research: Basic versus applied

The debate over the relative merit of basic vs applied research has been go ing on for as long as there has been research. This debate could be resolve d in many instances by better communication so that those who question the need for basic studies can see how basic findings can contribute directly a nd indirectly to the resolution of real problems. Applied research directed at problem-solving is usually dependent upon those facts that have been re vealed by basic researchers. This is a debate that should be set aside. The poultry industry must have contributions from both the basic and applied r esearchers to remain competitive and produce those products society depends upon.