Interviewer:Japan has had consecutive failures in launching rockets, and the U.S. space shuttle also crashed. Scientific technology doesn't seem to be all successful these days.

Tanaka:From the manufacturer's point of view, we have become less respectful toward fundamental technologies which have been considered the part to surely be trouble-free. We tend to neglect the basic technologies to create products which work properly and won't break easily. Such lack of attention might have surfaced as the breakup of the rockets or frequent accidents at plants. 　

Okada:There must be a limit to the technology advancement. For instance, we have seen the great progress in medical examination methods thanks to your (Mr. Tanaka's) development of the mass spectrometric analysis. Operation techniques have also matured. However, not all diseases can be cured even after those advancements.

Tanaka: I also forget things.

Okada:In my case, I have trouble with my legs these days. I go to see the doctor every month, but he can't identify any specific cause. Still, I have difficulty moving my legs. I don't believe we can make advances in everything. I even doubt that all the technological advancements are right in the first place. For example, what if everyone could live to 125 years old? Various social problems would arise as a result of longevity. Would everyone be happier? I doubt it. We have to be aware of both the good and bad points of science and technology. 　

Tanaka:Probably, all the scientific researchers want to believe, and have believed, that technological and scientific advancements are good. However, I believe it is still necessary to have a balance with other fields. 　

Okada:If we don't change our ways, the world will no doubt be extremely lacking in balance. Scientists have made various significant discoveries in the later half of the 20th century. Now, are there any great artistic achievements in the last half of the century? Unfortunately, there wasn't a Beethoven or a Goethe, let alone the great artists like those of the Renaissance. In this sense, I think we have entered a considerably poorer century. However, I still can't condemn the prevailing science as the cause for all the poorness. 　

Interviewer:Can we say the Beatles is the only great music group in the latter half of the 20th century? 　

Okada:I suppose so. I think they are possibly considered as one of the giants. I hope unfamiliar fields, other than science and technology, will increase their presence in the 21st century.