Sustained investment in science and engineering research and education in universities in the United States is advocated as a means of progressing economically. Information related to economic advancement is provided through summaries of recent trends in research, education, and economics. Ideas and data are reviewed in reference to: (1) the need for government supported research (highlighting the intellectual, pragmatic, and economic goals of research); (2) the need for economic competitiveness (assessing the status and trends of economic productivity); and (3) the quantity of research (examining efforts in supporting research, educating new scientists and engineers, and investing in research facilities and equipment). Basic research and education in science and engineering are viewed as a responsibilty of the federal government and are offered as the best single way to provide jobs and the national wealth for the future. (ML)