National geological surveys provide scientific knowledge about a nation's lands, natural resources, and natural hazards within particular political, social, and legal contexts. At any given time, the work done by a geological survey reflects the public good as governmentally defined. Regardless of specific activities, however, geological survey scientists have special responsibilities as public scientists to maintain high standards of scientific inquiry and to remain credible irrespective of shifting priorities and pressures. Historical review of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) illustrates how one major national geological survey has sought to address priorities of the public it serves and to contribute to the common good.

Historical Review

During the nineteenth century, many nations recognized the importance of understanding the nature and distribution of their natural resources and thus established national geological surveys. The British Geological Survey (BGS, established 1835) and the Geological Survey of Canada (GSC...