The Pontifical Academy of Sciences has raised alarms about political interference harming science globally, particularly criticizing the Trump administration’s agenda, which seeks to control funding, hiring practices at universities, and research topics. The administration has proposed significant cuts to the budgets of key science agencies, specifically targeting areas like climate change and diversity.
There are concerns that without sufficient legal pushback or Congressional oversight, these actions could severely undermine scientific progress. The Academy’s statement acknowledges that challenges to science are not limited to one region or ideology, urging scientists to uphold rigorous standards and for policymakers to protect institutional independence.
While historical skepticism towards the Catholic Church’s stance on science exists, the Academy, with papal support, has operated independently for decades.
The article emphasizes the importance of international scientific communities responding to anti-science movements, highlighting that actions in the U.S. set precedents affecting global scientific freedom. The Academy encourages collaboration across nations to defend the pursuit of scientific truth, calling for greater vocal support from those in positions of power.
