Friday, December 29, 2006
The Providence Journal: Add the U.S. Geological Survey to the list of scientific agencies the Bush administration would like to control. New rules at the Interior Department's research branch require scientists to submit potentially controversial facts, or interpretations of facts, for screening by the communications office before they are made public.
The Geological Survey studies a broad array of scientific topics, including global warming. Given the administration's history of trying to suppress or control data, it is not surprising that it would want the Geological Survey under its thumb. "I worry that it borders on censorship," USGS marine biologist Jim Estes said of the new policy. A 30-year veteran of the agency, Estes has sensed a distinct climate change. "It seems as if they're afraid of science," he told the Associated Press.
White House assault
In the past, the Bush White House has sought to rein in researchers at the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration. Its assault on the integrity of science has finally drawn rebukes from scientists themselves. This month, the American Union of Concerned Scientists announced that thousands of its members had signed a statement objecting to political interference with their work.
It should appall every American that this is even necessary. Scientific inquiry must remain free and unbiased to be worthy of the name.