There are many contentious areas in science because groups are looking for universal truths that validate their preconceived beliefs. Peter Van Doren comes back to the show today to talk about the role of science in the policy world. We look to scientists to conduct research that may better inform our policy decisions, but at the same time we have to make sure the science is trustworthy.

How should we use scientific evidence to make decisions? What kind of environmental regulation should there be? How much politics go in to scientific evidence? What is the role of science in policymaking?

Further Reading:

Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the California Waiver, written by Peter Van Doren

EPA’s scientific advisers warn its regulatory rollbacks clash with established science, written by Juliet Eilperin

Trump proposes change to environmental rules to speed up highway projects, pipelines and more, written by Juliet Eilperin

Anti-vaxxers surge past rate allowed by herd immunity: Gallup, written by Tiana Lowe

History of the Clean Water Act, EPA

Related Content:

The Politics of Science, Free Thoughts Podcast

Science Doesn’t Need Public Funding, Free Thoughts Podcast

Capitalism Can Save the Environment, Free Thoughts Podcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.