How will you balance scientific information with politics and personal beliefs in your decision-making?
12. Scientific Integrity. Many government scientists report political interference in their job. Is it acceptable for elected officials to hold back or alter scientific reports if they conflict with their own views, and how will you balance scientific information with politics and personal beliefs in your decision-making?
1 comment
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garold stone
commented
I think Shawn Otto hit the sweet spot with the phrasing this question. The question is general enough to cover most concerns about the need for science-based policy and its obstruction by ideology (religious and non-religious). The question is open, so as to draw out substantive answers from the candidates -- not just yes/no sound bites. The question does not have any biased presumptions that would make it easy to dismiss rhetorically. -- So, strategically, i think it should be the top science question for presidential candidates -- instead of some of the emotionally charged ZINGERs that currently have more votes.
