AI's Big Question: Can "Useless" Research Pay Off?

A major new study finds that open-ended, curiosity-driven science delivers highly valuable and unexpected benefits over time. This is true even in the age of artificial intelligence, which relies on the foundational knowledge such research creates. The report, from the Institute for Progress, analyzed decades of scientific work. It argues that research without an immediate commercial goal—often called "basic" or "blue-sky" research—is a critical driver of innovation. The study highlights that the unpredictable nature of discovery means today's "useless" knowledge often solves tomorrow's urgent problems. For example, early research on mRNA was once a niche academic field. It later enabled the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines. The authors address a key modern debate: Can AI replace this human-driven exploration? They conclude it cannot. AI systems are built upon vast datasets of existing human knowledge. Without new, fundamental discoveries from scientists, they argue, AI will have less to learn from and progress will stall. The report ultimately makes a case for sustained investment in basic science. It frames this not as a charitable donation, but as a strategic necessity for technological leadership and solving future challenges.