Top Five Reasons for Wanting a Presidential Debate on Science

The first editorial in the February 7th issue of Nature discusses a petition for a presidential debate that would focus on scientific and technological issues. There has been significant support for the idea of a presidential debate on science.

Numerous Nobel laureates, scientific organizations, government leaders, and renowned scientists have signed the petition. Some of the organizations and individuals who have joined the campaign include Science Magazine, American Association for the Advancement of Science, Skeptical Inquirer Magazine, Craig Venter, Steven Pinker, Sean Carroll, James Watson, and my personal favorite, Bill Nye the Science Guy. For a complete list go to www.sciencedebate2008.com

Here are my top five reasons for wanting a presidential debate that focuses on science.

1. I want a well informed president who understands the value of having a premier scientific community. I want a president who does not allow faith to stand in the way of scientific advancement, who understands the value of reason and skeptical inquiry. I want a president who understands the value of changing positions when the evidence supports it.

2. Whether we believe it or not, our planet is getting warmer and most scientists agree that we are at least partially to blame. I want a president that will address the problem of global warming and climate change and will listen to the recommendations of the scientific community.

3. I want a president who will support stem cell research even if the ethical issues are still not resolved.

4. I want a president who will make funds available for the development of alternative fuel sources.

5. I want a president who will not allow creationism in the class room, a president who understands the value of teaching evolution.

Please consider signing the petition for a presidential debate on science. We do not want another president who will neglect science.