The Politics of Science
08/02/11 14:55 Filed in: GenomeWeb Daily Scan
Submitted by S. Pelech - Kinexus on Fri, 02/18/2011 - 14:55.
There are several aspects of the pursuit of science that predispose its practitioners to be more "liberal" in their outlooks. Scientists seek the truth that underlies the observed phenomena in the universe, no matter where it might take them and what previous dogma may have been held. The collection and dissemination of scientific information works best when it has no international boundaries, and it is common that most scientists receive at least part of their training abroad and closely interact with other scientists from other countries. This also promotes the exchange of thoughts and ideas that go beyond the realm of science.
It is a bit unfair to generalize about the differences between "Republicans" and "Liberals" in the US with respect to their perceived value of science, especially since both types of administrations have strongly supported scientific research activities in the past. However, I do perceive a stronger focusing of funded research in the military and research that could lead to more immediately practical outcomes with Republican governments. One problem with such short term thinking is that it limits future opportunities in new productive directions that while disruptive could be transforming and highly beneficial.
Link to the original blog post.
There are several aspects of the pursuit of science that predispose its practitioners to be more "liberal" in their outlooks. Scientists seek the truth that underlies the observed phenomena in the universe, no matter where it might take them and what previous dogma may have been held. The collection and dissemination of scientific information works best when it has no international boundaries, and it is common that most scientists receive at least part of their training abroad and closely interact with other scientists from other countries. This also promotes the exchange of thoughts and ideas that go beyond the realm of science.
It is a bit unfair to generalize about the differences between "Republicans" and "Liberals" in the US with respect to their perceived value of science, especially since both types of administrations have strongly supported scientific research activities in the past. However, I do perceive a stronger focusing of funded research in the military and research that could lead to more immediately practical outcomes with Republican governments. One problem with such short term thinking is that it limits future opportunities in new productive directions that while disruptive could be transforming and highly beneficial.
Link to the original blog post.