An article in the Economist magazine had the headline, “Trade in Dinosaur Fossils Is Good for Science.” The article notes that: “Scientists often lack the resources to find, collect and preserve every fossil with scientific value before it is destroyed by nature. The private sector plugs the gap by responding to price signals.” According to the article, in the United States any dinosaur fossils discovered are the property of the landowner.

In many other countries, any dinosaur fossils discovered become the property of the government.

a. What does the article mean by the “private sector”?

What gaps is the private sector “plugging”?

b. Would you expect more dinosaur fossils to be discovered in the United States or in a country where the fossil would become the property of the government? Briefly explain.

c. Are there any reasons why allowing people to buy and sell dinosaur fossils might be bad for science? Briefly explain.