Should scientists be activists?
Listen 00:49:28Guests: James Hansen, Robert Young
Scientists, researchers, and lobbyists are planning a March for Science on April 22nd, calling it “the first step of a global movement to defend the vital role science plays in our health, safety, economies, and governments” The march, which many see as a response to the election of President Trump, has sparked a debate about the appropriateness of scientists engaging in political activism. Today, we’ll be joined by climate scientist and Columbia University professor, JAMES HANSEN, who believes that part of the science community’s role is to engage in political activity, including combating Trump’s recent environmental protection rollback. Then, we’ll hear from ROBERT YOUNG, a geologist from Western Carolina University, who believes that politicizing science will not help the cause of creating better, science-based, policy.
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.