Nature sets example in scientific, even political circles with virus apology: expert
Science journal Nature has set an example in scientific and even political circles by apologizing for previously labeling the novel coronavirus after Wuhan and China, Chinese observers said. The move, which underscored the journal’s respect for facts, honesty and objectivity, is being spoken highly of among Chinese experts and netizens.
In the editorial entitled
“Stop the coronavirus stigma now,” Nature wrote that the World Health Organization (WHO) was implicitly sending a reminder to those who had erroneously associated the virus with Wuhan and with China in their news coverage – including Nature.
“That we did so was an error on our part, for which we take responsibility and apologize,” the journal said.
The pandemic is fueling deplorable racism and discrimination, especially against Asian people, Nature said.
The article also named a few politicians, including Brazilian lawmaker Eduardo Bolsonaro, for continuing to associate the virus with China, calling the behavior “irresponsible” and saying it “needs to stop.”
“Many leaders want to listen to and act on expert scientific advice to deal with this pandemic and save lives,” Nature wrote, adding “the advice is clear: we must all do everything we can to avoid and reduce stigma; not associate COVID-19 with particular groups of people or places; and emphasize that viruses do not discriminate – we are all at risk.”
The apology by Nature showed its pragmatic and scientific spirit, Li Haidong, a professor at the Institute of International Relations of the China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times on Thursday.
“The journal showed its professionalism in dealing with controversy stemming from the outbreak,” Le said.
He noted that it has set an example in scientific circles and even political circles on the attitude to be adopted when discussing scientific topics, which shows respect for evidence, and for being honest and objective, rather than politicizing the matter.