| on Dec 29, 2007, 01:43 PM E.S.T.
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We need better mechanisms to determine science policy. Michael outlined several issues before a joint meeting of liberal and conservative think tanks. You can also watch a video of the speech (use link below).
As some of you may know, I have spent the last several years exploring various environmental issues, particularly global warming. I have been deeply disturbed by what I have found, largely because the so-called evidence for so many environmental issues is often shockingly flawed and unsubstantiated.
But more troubling, to me, is the degree to which the political process seems to have captured and often corrupted the integrity of the scientific research that is used to formulate policy, and inform policy decisions.
I am also troubled by the insensible and distracting contentiousness that seems to inform so much of current political debate - especially when environmental issues are involved. As a result of this political friction - which is all heat and no light - policy is often established by way of litigation, rather than negotiation and legislation.
From these observations, I conclude that as a society we lack the tools and methodologies we need to resolve thorny science-policy issues promptly, equitably and constructively. Read the rest...
About the author:
 Michael Crichton is the best-selling author of State
of Fear, which takes the reader from the glaciers of Iceland to the volcanoes
of Antarctica, from the Arizona desert to the deadly jungles of the
Solomon Islands, from the streets of Paris to the beaches of Los
Angeles. The novel races forward on a roller-coaster thrill ride, all
the while keeping the brain in high gear. Gripping and thought
provoking, State of Fear is Michael Crichton at his very best.
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