Science, senators, and uncertainty
Brandon, R.N.
Federation Proceedings 38(12): 2564-2566
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0014-9446 PMID: 499570 Document Number: 153470
Scientific knowledge can contribute to better decisions by policy-makers, if conclusions are presented in ways amenable to the process of policy formulation. Since Congressmen consider the enactment of scientific recommendations in terms of feasible programs, scientists should prepare a range of acceptable options when recommending solutions to problems. Thus, in seeking to define policy scientists and politicians should explore a common ground. Policy must account for the responses of the public, as well as their needs; costs, benefits and risks must be evaluated. These factors determine a range of uncertainty in choosing the best solution. Research strategies should be developed which explain the steps and time needed to move from basic research to practical applications, with intermediate categories of research groupings in between to provide better consistency in Congressional funding of scientific research.