The value of basic research: tracing how the wonder of a blue butterfly inspired modern innovation.

Abstract

Many studies have demonstrated the benefits of basic research and yet attacks on basic research remain a current threat to science. In this Perspective, I use the Morpho butterfly as the subject of a historical narrative that starts with present day applications, then traces the roots of current innovation back to a foundation of basic research. Throughout, I ask what drew researchers to this fascinating insect; the answer generally involves the concepts of curiosity or wonder. This case study adds to many examples showing that applications, which themselves often take decades of development, often stem from centuries of observation and experimentation that are completely divorced from any applied research. But it also highlights the critical value of government and institutional support for basic research; without public funding, scientific inquiry would be guided by private interests, and curiosity-driven efforts would be limited to self-funded efforts by the wealthy. When we do support basic inquiry, we must also consider how to foster curiosity around those organisms that might be less flashy or charismatic, as we have much to learn from the ten million species on Earth.