Science Vs The War Keeps Raging Against Science
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May 22, 2025 
Max Koslov, a dedicated reporter for Nature, discusses the alarming state of science in the U.S., focusing on chilling research funding cuts and political interference. He reveals how scientific narratives are being distorted—like the milkshake controversy contrasting food and addiction. The conversation delves into how budget cuts jeopardize vital studies on COVID-19 and climate change, raising concerns over public health and economic impact. Koslov also emphasizes the necessity of investing in science to prevent a brain drain and sustain innovation.
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Milkshake Study Suppressed At NIH
- NIH researchers published a study showing milkshakes do not trigger addictive dopamine rushes like drugs.
- Lead scientist Kevin Hall suspected his interview and press release were blocked due to inconvenient findings, leading to his early retirement.
Massive NIH Cutbacks Target Topics
- The NIH cut funding for over 1,500 research projects worth $7 billion, especially on vaccine hesitancy and COVID-19.
- Research on transgender health was cut except for studies focusing on regret after transitioning, raising concerns of bias.
Global Health Cuts Risk Millions
- Cuts to U.S. global health funding might result in 25 million deaths over 15 years from HIV, tuberculosis, and unsafe births.
- Researchers are scrambling to find alternate funding due to the human lives at stake.