Editorial. In Defense of Science - Analytical Chemistry (ACS

Editorial. In Defense of Science. Herbert A. Laitinen. Anal. Chem. , 1970, 42 (3), pp 313–313. DOI: 10.1021/ac60285a600. Publication Date: March 197...
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A N A LVTIC A L CHEMISTRY EDITORIAL

March 1970,Vol. 42, No. 3 Editor:

HERBERT A LAITINEN

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In Defense of Science ALVINM. WEINBERG, Director of Oak Ridge National Laboratory, in a recent article in Science, 167,141 (1970) has thoughtfully analyzed the various types of attack being launched upon science, especially in the United States. Briefly, these can be characterized as (1) attacks upon the “politics” of science, or competitive maneuvering for scientific support, (2) criticisms against the decreasing relevance of science to current problems of society, (3) advocations for technological slowdown to alleviate detrimental side effects, and (4)the cries of the “scientific abolitionists” who maintain that the scientific-technological basis of modern civilization is wrong in principle. T o the “scientific muckrakers” Dr. Weinberg frankly responds that a political decision-making process is necessary in the absence of a market place, when choices are to be made between widely diverse scientific activities. To the pleaders for increasing relevance or slowdown, the reply is that science represents the underpinning of new technology and that there is no better cure for the ill effects of past technology than the proper application of new technology. I n answer to the annihilists, the need is not for abolishing the fruits along with the evil by-products of technology, but for deeper understanding of the relationships between technology and man in his environment. To someone who has been a part of the scientific community for several decades, it seems fantastic that science should be put on the defensive; yet the attacks cannot simply be ignored, because half truths and distortions often gain credence through constant repetition. Dr. Weinberg’s careful and critical analysis of the situation deserves careful study by us all. It is clear that we, as scientists, can no longer take for granted either approval of our goals or a high level of financial support. To a greater extent than ever before, we will be questioned sharply as to the types of benefits society can hope to expect in exchange for its supporl. Fortunately for analytical chemistry, we can readily find strong justification as a vital service to all branches of science and technology and for research and development in new methodology to keep that service abreast of changing needs.

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