Questioning science

Recently, Eric Beach, co-chairman of Great America PAC, a pro-Trump organization, stated, “Trump understands that we should question science.” Apparently, Mr. Beach and POTUS do not understand that science questions itself and demands that research findings be replicated by additional scientific studies before they are considered valid and reliable. Science is the reason drugs, vaccines, and treatments undergo multiple rigorous clinical trials to determine whether they are safe and effective. Science is the reason vehicles have safety features and packaged foods have sell-by dates.

The Science Council defines science as “the pursuit and application of knowledge and understanding of the natural and social world following a systematic methodology based on evidence.” The Encyclopedia Britannica says science is “any system of knowledge that is concerned with the physical world and its phenomena, and that entails unbiased observations and systematic experimentation.”

Science is not comprised of myths, whims, intuition, personal preferences or biases. Tweeting an idea does not make it a proven scientific fact. By all means, “question science” and you join the world’s scientists in being reasonable and informed. Make baseless, sensational, self-serving pronouncements that spread falsehoods and influence people to endanger their own and others’ health, and you demonstrate ignorance of science. DONNA M. VAN KIRK Fayetteville