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Attacks on science: the risks to evidence-based policy.
Linda Rosenstock1, Lore Jackson Lee
1School of Public Health, University of California at Los Angeles
American Journal of Public Health
|January 5, 2002
Summary
Government researchers face politicization tactics that threaten evidence-based policy. Vigilance, transparency, and clear science-policy boundaries are crucial for protecting scientific integrity and informed decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Policy Studies
- Science Ethics
- Research Integrity
Background:
- Government agencies and academic centers are increasingly influential in policy decisions.
- Objective scientific research faces politicization and silencing attempts.
- Sophisticated strategies risk undermining evidence-based policymaking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the risks to evidence-based policy from politicization.
- To advocate for vigilance in protecting scientific research and researchers.
- To propose strategies for maintaining scientific integrity in policy.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of current trends in politicizing scientific research.
- Identification of tactics used to undermine evidence-based policy.
- Review of institutional and individual responsibilities.
Main Results:
- Politicization efforts pose a significant threat to objective science.
- Existing strategies require enhanced vigilance and proactive measures.
- Clear distinctions between science and policy are often blurred.
Conclusions:
- Protecting evidence-based policy requires institutional and individual vigilance.
- Strategies include differentiating scientific challenges from vested interests.
- Transparency, partnerships, and clear publication rules are essential.
Keywords:
Biomedical and Behavioral Research