Meaning: The quote by Ernest Istook touches upon the importance of research and development, as well as the role of government programs and parental support in promoting education in science and math. It highlights the need for a combination of both economic incentives and personal responsibility to drive technological advancement and educational achievement.

In the first part of the quote, Istook emphasizes the necessity of permanent tax credits for research and development in order to foster technological innovation and drive economic growth. Research and development (R&D) plays a crucial role in advancing technology, creating new products and services, and improving existing ones. By offering tax credits to companies engaged in R&D activities, governments aim to incentivize investment in innovative projects, which in turn can lead to the development of groundbreaking technologies and the creation of new jobs.

The concept of permanent tax credits for R&D is rooted in the idea that continuous support for innovation is essential for long-term economic prosperity. The predictability and stability of such incentives can encourage businesses to make sustained investments in research and development, leading to a more robust and competitive technological landscape. Additionally, R&D tax credits can contribute to spurring growth in industries such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, and information technology, among others.

However, Istook also acknowledges that government programs alone are not sufficient to address the broader challenge of promoting education in science and math. He emphasizes the critical role of parental involvement in encouraging students to pursue studies in these fields. This reflects a recognition that while policy measures and incentives can create an enabling environment for education and innovation, individual motivation and support are equally important in driving academic achievement.

The reference to parents pushing and helping their children to study more science and math underscores the significance of a supportive and nurturing home environment in shaping a child's educational aspirations and achievements. Parents can play a pivotal role in fostering a positive attitude towards learning, providing resources for exploration and discovery, and instilling a passion for subjects such as science and math. By actively engaging with their children's education, parents can contribute to the development of critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a strong foundation in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines.

Furthermore, parental involvement can extend beyond the home environment to encompass advocacy for quality education, collaboration with teachers and schools, and exposure to real-world applications of science and math. Encouraging children to participate in extracurricular activities, science fairs, and math competitions can also enhance their interest and proficiency in these subjects.

In summary, the quote by Ernest Istook encapsulates the intertwined nature of economic incentives, government programs, and parental support in driving technological advancement and promoting education in science and math. It underscores the complementary roles of policy measures and personal responsibility in fostering innovation and academic achievement, ultimately contributing to the overall progress and competitiveness of a nation.