The White House is making big changes to how science is handled in the US.  They are pushing for what they call "gold standard science. "  This sounds good, right?  Not everyone thinks so.  Many scientists are worried.  Why?  Because the plan puts political leaders in charge of checking scientific work.  This is a big deal.  These leaders can even change scientific info if they want.  They can control how this info is shared with the public.  Plus, they can punish anyone who doesn't follow their rules.

Science is about finding facts and proving them.  It's not about politics.  So, why the change?  Some think it's to control what the public knows.  Others see it as a way to push certain ideas.  Either way, it's a slippery slope.  Once politics gets involved, science can get messy.  Facts can get twisted.  Truth can get lost.

The order was given on May 23.  It's called an executive order.  This means the president can make it happen without Congress.  It puts political appointees in charge.  These are people chosen by the president.  They don't have to be scientists.  They just have to follow the president's views.  This is where things get tricky.  Science should be about facts, not views.  But with this order, views might win out.

What does this mean for science in the US?  It's hard to say.  Some scientists might speak out.  Others might keep quiet.  Some might even leave the country.  After all, science is global.  It doesn't stop at borders.  But one thing is clear.  This order is a big shift.  It's a change in how science is done and shared.  And it's a change that's making a lot of people nervous.

The order also gives these appointees power.  They can "discipline" anyone who doesn't follow the rules.  This could mean scientists who speak out.  Or those who share info the wrong way.  It's a chilling thought.  Science should be free.  It should be about finding truth, not following rules.  But with this order, rules might matter more than truth.

The New Science Police

Actions