The article discusses the growing concerns around anti-science movements, as articulated by scientists Michael E. Mann and Peter J. Hotez in their book Science Under Siege: How To Fight The Five Most Powerful Forces That Threaten Our World. They reference Carl Sagan’s warnings about the dangers of pseudoscience, arguing that the current situation has escalated into a widespread anti-science phenomenon that undermines public health and environmental policies.
Mann and Hotez point to the resistance against vaccines and climate science as critical issues exacerbated by misinformation and disinformation campaigns, linking high death tolls during the COVID-19 pandemic to political propaganda, particularly from Republican leaders in red states. They criticize the expansion of anti-vaccine movements and the involvement of various influential figures and groups.
They also highlight the role of petrostates, with Russia as a primary actor, in spreading anti-science sentiments globally. The authors argue for the need for scientists to engage politically and support pro-science candidates, suggesting that education and government regulation of social media could help combat misinformation.
In conclusion, Mann and Hotez warn that failure to address the anti-science tide poses a grave threat to civilization, urging collective action against these challenges. Their book delivers a passionate call to arms for the scientific community and the public to counteract the pervasive influence of anti-scientific beliefs.
