There are a lot of hot button topics ranging from social issues (e.g. sexuality, religion) to even metaphysical ones (God). I assume scientists hold personal views on these matters just like anyone else. Yet in recent times, the social pressure to conform or to not offend (or to not deviate from a popular side) seems very great given that people are quick to shun (or cancel) someone. I blame politics for this. What used to be isolated to politics is now pervasive in society and it's not just politicians that have to be politically correct, but everyone has to.
Given this social pressure to conform or not offend, I question if scientists can be trusted with hot button issues. And that is the debate topic here.
Given this social pressure to conform or not offend, I question if scientists can be trusted with hot button issues. And that is the debate topic here.