In the current political climate, should scientists speak up or keep their heads down to avoid unwanted attention?
Dozens of scientists in the USA have been fired in the past couple of months (from universities, companies, and government) over comments made online. In addition to the risk of job loss, more than two-thirds of biomedical scientists (according to a recent survey) report being harassed on social media.
If there’s a risk you might get fired, and a high likelihood you’ll get harassed, isn’t it logical for scientists to simply avoid making any public statements these days?
The problem with this approach is that it cedes the arena to those with anti-science messaging. Even though it may be hard right now for scientists to speak out publicly, there has never been a more important time to do so.
This does not mean scientists should feel compelled to post their feelings about every hot-button topic that pops up. But, on trending topics related to science (including the funding of research), the world needs to hear from scientists.
In the time before social media (pre-2005), scientific societies played central roles in mediating communication between scientists and the public. Today, societies still play key roles in helping to coordinate messaging, but it’s individual scientists who have the biggest impact in talking directly to the public.
A scientist who posts their thoughts on social media can reach many thousands of fellow citizens. A scientist who gives a local talk in their community may reach a smaller number, but might do an even better job of winning hearts and minds.
In the current climate, with so many scientists getting fired or harassed for speaking publicly, I’d like to express my gratitude to all the scientists out there who are taking the time and making the effort to speak out about science.
Sincerely,
Randy Hall, PhD
President, ASPET
