Summary:
In the context of a looming “anti-science superstorm,” researchers Dr. Peter Hotez and Dr. Michael Mann discuss their book “Science Under Siege.” They argue that a coalition of billionaires, political leaders, and experts is actively working to mislead the public on scientific issues, particularly climate change and vaccinations. Dr. Mann highlights the backlash he faced after publishing pivotal research on climate change in the 1990s, while Dr. Hotez recounts his own struggles with anti-vaccine groups after advocating against false claims linking vaccines to autism.
They identify key players in this conflict, including plutocrats, petro-states, and certain media outlets that promote anti-science narratives, undermining established scientific consensus. Both scientists emphasize that the opposition is not merely random misinformation but is organized and politically motivated. They stress the need for scientists to actively engage in defending scientific truth without veering into partisanship, advocating for policies based on solid scientific evidence.
Ultimately, they assert that more overt action is necessary to counter the threats posed by anti-scientific forces and to protect public health initiatives, particularly vaccinations. Their work aims to empower the scientific community to more confidently address these challenges.
