Science is not a matter of favor

2020/03/27 Galarraga Aiestaran, Ana - Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Etika
• Osasuna
• Giza zientziak

«Do a favor: move, move.» Thus begins the last editorial of the journal Science. This American magazine is one of the most prestigious scientific publications in the world. These words are not from the editor but from Donald Trumpen. At a special meeting to deal with COVID-19, she was explained over and over again that she needed a year and a half to develop a vaccine. In vain, Trump did not accept the explanations and asked him as a personal favorite: «Help me in favor».

Trump cannot ask for favors from scientists. Since he entered the command, they have only received limitations and restrictions. At the same time, climate change deniers, those who deny evolution and, in general, numerous associations, organizations and movements that act against the scientific bases have received support and momentum. For example, last week the government indicated that the spread of the virus was limited. However, it was evident that in the State of Washington it was extending beyond. The editorial suggests that denial of reality caused consequences, which caused the federal government to respond more slowly than it needed. "You can't offend science when something you don't like and, suddenly, strive to ask something that science can't give you to your liking." At this time, the president needs science. But science has been trying for centuries to know the laws of nature, and researchers work on the bases that these efforts have brought. Thus, to respond to the crisis of covid-19, it has been more evident than ever the collaboration between working groups around the world, and the results have come and are coming faster than ever. Therefore, the requirement of the vaccine and the distortion and contempt of science are contradictory. The vaccine must have a scientific, useful and safe basis. Getting it can take a year and a half or more. And the pharmaceutical industry is very interested in getting to this point as soon as possible; in short, they sell the vaccine. They know, however, that the laws of nature are inviolable. "Three years ago the President was skeptical of vaccines and tried to create a working group against vaccines. Now, suddenly, he loves vaccines».Even without reaching the level of trout, there will be those who do not take science into account and now wait for the results quickly. The last sentence of the editorial addressed to all of them by default to Trump: «If you want something, first you have respect for science and its bases».