The strength of the scientific establishment in any country is related to its general level of education, not only in supplying large numbers of eager minds for further training, but also in ensuring a public opinion that holds science in esteem and approves financial support.

The quote by Arthur Lewis emphasizes the connection between a country’s scientific strength and its overall level of education. Lewis suggests that a robust scientific establishment relies not only on the availability of trained individuals but also on a society that values and respects science. This underscores the idea that education is foundational to both cultivating talent and fostering a culture that supports scientific progress.

Lewis highlights the dual role of education: first, it provides a pipeline of eager minds ready for advanced scientific training; second, it helps develop a public opinion that recognizes the importance of science. A population that appreciates the value of scientific work is more likely to endorse policies, including financial support, that sustain research and innovation.

The quote reflects Lewis’s broader concerns as an economist and thinker about the factors that influence a nation’s development. He underscores that science does not exist in isolation—it thrives in a society where people are both educated and engaged, understanding its relevance to social and economic progress.

Overall, the statement advocates for a holistic view of scientific advancement, linking it directly to education, public perception, and institutional support. Lewis implies that for a country to maintain a strong scientific presence, it must cultivate not just experts, but a society that values knowledge, invests in research, and appreciates the transformative potential of science.