Uncertain Principles

I want to see ample funding for scientific research, or failing that, at least adequate funding for scientific research. Good experiments should not have to go begging for research funding.

I want to see funding priorities set on scientific criteria, based on what projects and programs have the best chance of improving our knowledge of the universe. Research funding should not be redirected for ideological reasons, or to benefit politically connected contractors.

I want to see research scientists protected against undue infringemetns on their academic freedom to research topics of their choosing in the manner of their choosing. There should be no restrictions on the publication or reporting of the results of research, and no restrictions on research topics other than those required to ensure ethical treatment of human and animal subjects.

I want to see science policy made on the basis of the best science available, in accordance with the relevant scientific consensus. There should be no cherry-picking of scientific results to support particular policies, or create uncertainty about the state of our knowledge.

I want to see excellence in science education at all levels, from elementary school to graduate school. Curricula should be set on the basis of scientific consensus, and should be as up to date as possible. Teaching should be in general accordance with our understanding of effective pedagogy (while allowing enough flexibility to accomodate individual teaching and learning styles). Salaries and working conditions should be improved as needed to attract and retain people with scientific training into the educational sector.

I want to see science understood and appreciated as a valuable activity, that adds to the depth and richness of our lives and culture. Science should not be seen as the exclusive and incomprehensible province of geeks and freaks and nerds, but as one of the most fundamentally human activities. The pursuit of science, broadly defined, is every bit as much a characteristic of our species as anything in art or literature, and any human is capable of doing science and understanding science.