Sunday, February 17, 2013
Room 310 (Hynes Convention Center)
Science and Democracy have been inextricably intertwined throughout the history of our republic. Today scientific information can wield significant power in policy arenas. Science is rarely the only factor driving public policy but the best outcomes follow scientific input weighed in the open from impartial perspectives. Access to the best available science allows federal decision makers to craft public policies that protect our health, safety, and environment. The executive branch struggles to uphold and make use of the scientific expertise in the agencies, while making policy decisions that match its political objectives and obligations. Unfortunately, the result can be the censorship of scientists and the manipulation, distortion, and suppression of scientific information driven by both ideology and commercial interests. Although this tension will persist, best practices based on the principles of transparency and protecting government scientists can help. Recognizing that political interference in science is a serious issue, many federal agencies have taken considerable steps to “restore science to its rightful place.” They have committed to open government initiatives, enacted reforms promoting transparency and implemented scientific integrity standards. However, the progress to date is insufficient. The next four years represent a critical period in our democracy with decisions on global issues, such as climate change, energy demand, population growth and the loss of biodiversity, potentially directing the course of the United States for years to come. For these reasons, it is important for the administration, federal agencies, and Congress to put in place policies that protect federal scientists, increase transparency and accountability, streamline the regulatory process, improve access to scientific advice, and strengthen monitoring and enforcement of regulations.