Having a problem

set technology to 10? Thats what I do sometimes. Also might want to try to do quantum leaps in tech by setting all your spendign to technology and researching a lot of techs fast then taking a break to use the tech to build social improvements that increase reaserch and then repeat.

~SDC~

To achieve technological leadership, I think that it is best to choose ... the Federalist.
It is always better to have a healthy economy than to be poor scientist. Not only because you can switch to war time economy when needed but also because the Research is by far the most expensive activity.
Why? Because there is no Science boosting starbase module !
You can always bosst your military and social production with planet base improvement + Mining/Economic starbase bonus giving a lot of "free" bonuses.
The real breakthrough in science happens when you open the "x computer" path (Brain wave mapping - Tera computers...). Build Nano recorders, Technological capitals and research center and you will soon sky rocket to techno leadership.
It is strange that, in all my games, the AI never bother to research "Zero Gravity Research" (and so cannot build the very cost effective Research lab with its 25% local bonus to research). Of course you should...

Hope this helps

Herve

~SDC~

Just as a note, the AI has researched it in my games - and I ended up trading for it, because I was busy out-militarizing the Yor and the Drengin.

~SDC~