RAND > Topics >

Science and Technology

Featured

RAND experts have often been among the pioneers of key scientific research, including computer analysis, satellite development, military technology, and the foundations of the Internet. RAND's research has also resulted in the development of new methodologies and ways of analyzing policy issues, from the Delphi method to Robust Decision Making.

  • A U.S. Air Force B-52 prepares to carry the X-51 Hypersonic Vehicle out to the range for a launch test from Edwards AFB, California, May 1, 2013

    Commentary

    Hypersonic Missiles: A New Proliferation Challenge

    Mar 29, 2018

    Within 10 years, hypersonic missiles are likely to be deployed and offered on the international market. But there is time for action by states that do not want hypersonic missiles to flourish in their neighborhoods. It is time to move toward heading off this threat while it is still possible to do so.

  • Abstract map of earth with futuristic, technological details

    Project

    Exploring the Future of Global Security

    Apr 24, 2018

    The Security 2040 initiative explores technologies and trends that are shaping the global security landscape. By focusing on lesser-known security risks, Security 2040 aims to help decisionmakers anticipate and respond to threats on the horizon.

Topics in Focus:

Explore Science and Technology

  • Journal Article

    Journal Article

    Electronic Health Record "Super-Users" and "Under-Users" in Ambulatory Care Practices

    To achieve the broader benefits of electronic health records, health systems and policy makers need to identify and address barriers to full use of health IT functionalities.

    May 18, 2018

  • IT professional checking on servers

    Commentary

    Ending the 'Brogrammer' Culture—How to Close the Gender Gap

    Despite recent progress, women are significantly outnumbered in technology, comprising only 30% of the workforce worldwide. It is up to society, governments, and technology companies to help close the gap through improving internet access, education opportunities, and career opportunities for women in technology.

    May 17, 2018

  • Report

    Report

    Defining Second Generation Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) for the Defense Enterprise

    This report describes the evolution of open source intelligence, defines open source information and the intelligence cycle, and parallels with other intelligence disciplines, along with methods used and challenges of using off-the-shelf technology.

    May 17, 2018

  • Multimedia

    How Truth Decay Happens

    “Truth Decay”—the shrinking role of facts and analysis in American public life—threatens democracy, policymaking, and civic discourse. RAND is studying this phenomenon to help understand what drives it and how to address it.

    May 16, 2018

  • Michael Rich discussing RAND's "Truth Decay" research

    Multimedia

    Truth Decay: A Narrated Video

    "Truth Decay" is the diminishing role of facts and analysis in American public life. RAND is studying the causes and consequences of this phenomenon, and how they are interrelated. We invite other research organizations and individuals to join us in finding potential solutions and responses.

    May 16, 2018

  • A doctor wearing a white coat holding a clipboard

    Report

    Medical Care Provided to California's Injured Workers: Monitoring System Performance Using Administrative Data

    This report provides a framework for understanding changes in medical spending levels and provides the results from RAND's analysis of Workers' Compensation Information System data for 2007--2012.

    May 16, 2018

  • Dissertation

    Dissertation

    Value of Information for Policy Analysis

    This dissertation considers the viability of applying Value of Information methods in complex systems for policy analysis, concluding that these methods can be applied, but that different methods are appropriate in different cases.

    May 15, 2018

  • Collage of public policy subject matter

    Brochure

    RAND's Most Influential Research from 70 Years Working in the Public Interest

    Over its 70-year history, RAND has continuously demonstrated that rigorous research and analysis can help address some of the world's most challenging problems.

    May 14, 2018

  • Clockwise from top left: RAND's JOHNNIAC mainframe computer, the RAND Tablet, a mobile phone, and an autonomous vehicle

    Essay

    70 Years of Innovation at RAND

    Seventy years ago, a group of researchers established the independent RAND Corporation. From the first satellite design, to helping ensure GPS as a public good, to laying the groundwork for the internet, RAND has been making a difference ever since.

    May 9, 2018

  • A B-1B Lancer unleashes cluster munitions

    Commentary

    Cluster Munitions and Rearming for Great Power Competition

    The United States might need Cluster munitions, anti-personnel landmines, and tactical nuclear weapons to deter or defeat aggression. If policymakers choose to lift bans on these munitions, the ensuing policy restrictions might be tailored to address where these capabilities are necessary.

    May 9, 2018

  • News Release

    News Release

    3D Printing Could Disrupt Labor Markets and National Security

    While advances in additive manufacturing offer potential breakthroughs in prosthetic arms, jet engine parts, and a host of other products, 3D printing, as it is known, may also disrupt traditional labor markets and exacerbate existing security threats from violent actors.

    May 9, 2018

  • 3D printer and printable drone, gun, and airplane turbine.

    Article

    Four Ways 3D Printing May Threaten Security

    3D printing has the potential to improve lives. But it could also bring new perils, such as disrupting weapons regulations and jeopardizing manufacturing jobs. While there's reason to be cautious about this technology, there's also danger in overreacting and overregulating what could be a new era of innovation.

    May 8, 2018

  • Audio Podcast of Truth Decay Event at RAND

    Multimedia

    Truth Decay and the Media

    In this Events @ RAND podcast, a panel of experts discusses the connection between the media and Truth Decay. They address the effects of changes in the information environment, including the rise of social media, the shift to a 24-hour news cycle, increasing partisanship of some news sources, algorithms and filters, and media literacy.

    May 8, 2018

  • 3d printing in progress

    Report

    Additive Manufacturing in 2040: Powerful Enabler, Disruptive Threat

    If additive manufacturing — also called 3D printing — continues to develop along its current trends, it could profoundly alter the global economy, international security, and the organization of society.

    May 8, 2018

  • Report

    Report

    Force Presentation in U.S. Air Force History and Airpower Narratives

    USAF leaders are concerned that their force presentation construct is lacking. This report presents historical analysis and recommendations to inform USAF deliberations regarding future force presentation constructs.

    May 7, 2018

  • Malware or virus inside microchip on electronic circuit

    Commentary

    What Do Meltdown, Spectre, and RyzenFall Mean for the Future of Cybersecurity?

    Unlike most previous cyber threats, a new wave of vulnerabilities attack a computer's hardware, rather than its software. What does this mean for cybersecurity as a whole?

    May 3, 2018

  • A graphic representing an accelerating future

    Article

    Can Humans Survive a Faster Future?

    Life is moving faster and faster. Just about everything—transportation, weapons, the flow of information—is accelerating. How will decisionmakers preserve our personal and national security in the face of hyperspeed?

    May 1, 2018

  • Osonde Osoba in a RAND panel discussion in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, February 20, 2018

    Commentary

    The Human Side of Artificial Intelligence: Q&A with Osonde Osoba

    Osonde Osoba has been exploring AI since age 15. He says it's less about the intelligence and more about being able to capture how humans think. He is developing AI to improve planning and is also studying fairness in algorithmic decisionmaking in insurance pricing and criminal justice.

    May 1, 2018

  • A robot arm moves its index finger toward a nuclear button

    Commentary

    Will Artificial Intelligence Undermine Nuclear Stability?

    In the coming years, AI-enabled progress in tracking and targeting adversaries' nuclear weapons could undermine the foundations of nuclear stability. The chance that AI will someday be able to guide strategy decisions about escalation or even launching nuclear weapons is real.

    May 1, 2018

  • Abstract motion speed light with night city background

    Report

    Speed and Security: Promises, Perils, and Paradoxes of Accelerating Everything

    As new technologies and social dynamics shift society into hyperdrive, speed could catalyze security risks in areas such as transportation, communication, and health. How can policymakers devise strategies to adapt?

    May 1, 2018

Research conducted by