AbstractRapport National de Conjunctureis an important report for French national science policy. Compiled every five years by the national committee of the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), it is the main basis for scientific planning in the country.The following is taken from the 1974Rapport, and is an analysis of the science-growth relationship. Suggestions are put forward as to how to adapt present-day science to ensure prosperity in the future.