The Guardian view on Trump’s war on science: politicising a generation of researchers | Editorial
Summary
President Donald Trump has reduced some U.S. science funding and taken actions affecting federal science agencies, but overall scientific funding slightly increased in recent government budgets. Around the world, right-wing populist leaders have challenged science and scientific independence, leading more scientists in the U.S. to enter politics to defend science and its role in society.Key Facts
- President Trump proposed cutting U.S. federal science and medical research funding by about half, but Congress slightly increased overall funding instead.
- Specific targets of funding cuts included the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- Trump removed members from the National Science Foundation’s oversight board.
- Over 700 scientists running for political office sought support to challenge attacks on science ahead of the U.S. midterm elections.
- Right-wing populist leaders in Brazil, India, and the UK have also weakened science funding or altered science education.
- Scientists historically avoided direct politics to maintain independence from government interference.
- Political attacks on science and growing social demands are causing scientists to engage more actively in politics.
- Scientists now work to protect scientific independence and promote public understanding of science against political attacks.
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