Anti-Science

Why do certain people hate science?

A day after the leading contender for the Republican nomination to take on Barack Obama said he doubts all the science about global climate change, you have to wonder why mostly conservatives want to doubt science.  Is it because they don't like the answers objective scientific scrutiny provides?  Probably. 

Which brings us to this excellent Forbes article from a week or so ago.

Anti-science ideology isn’t completely new in the U.S. — there is a dismaying history of irrational, pseudoscientific, or downright anti-scientific thinking and political culture here. But it seems to be gaining momentum — even as it runs counter to America’s scientific and technological strengths. Such strengths, in fact, underpin our economic and political strengths.

Leading GOPer Rick Perry stumbled badly last night in answering a question about global climate change.  Despite all the scientific evidence to the contrary, he's certain his take is the right one.  "Galileo got outvoted for a spell," he said.  Yes, Gov. Perry, except it was religious leaders, not scientists, who outvoted him.  Perry may very well be the eventual nominee, but let's not put him in the high IQ category. This is a guy who managed a "D" in economics.  At Texas A&M.

The Republican Party can do better.  Not only better than Perry, who I think will not only win the nomination but also be a serious challenge to Obama, but the party can do better when it comes to science rather than attacking scientists.  You don't like the answers?  Find another job than public office.