Second in a Series, where we debunk the most prevalent myths that are convenient excuses for not advocating or supporting a cause or proposal.
Myth #2: Science shouldn’t be another “special interest group.”
Carlos Meriles of CCNY discussing the importance of his science research with Rep. Bob Filner (D-CA) at the 2008 CNSF Reception.
I’ve heard the following line too many times to count: Science shouldn’t be another “special interest group.” I infer from that statement that, somehow, science will lose its purity if scientists start explaining to the public how important it is to the country.
I understand why scientists recite the line. Turn on the news and one is hit with reports of “horrible” special interest groups who have “hijacked” the democratic process. We even hear it from elected officials: “I have the solution to these problems, but all these special interest groups are trying to stop me.”
People go on ad nauseam about how the foundations of democracy have been ruined by the existence of special interest groups. After hearing all of this, would anyone WANT to be a special interest group?
Yes!
Special interest groups are not evil-democracy-destroying groups; they are organized groups of citizens exercising their constitutional right to petition the government. In a democratic republic, like ours, citizens tell elected representatives their concerns, and elected officials make decisions. Therefore, giving our opinions to our representatives is vital to democracy. This is how our system is set up, and it works quite well.
Why, then, do people complain? It’s an effective tactic of undercutting one’s opposition, thus lessening a group’s influence. When it comes right down to it, complaining about special interest groups is the real enemy of good democracy. When one tries to stifle legitimate groups of citizens from voicing their concerns, one is really attempting to politically silence people. I can think of nothing more undemocratic.
So, should science be a special interest group? Let me rephrase that: Should scientists organize and explain to the public and elected officials the importance of science in our society and why it deserves the country’s support? Yes, of course!
