Scientists Step Up to Political Plate

The other day, my friend (a biochemist working on her Ph.D.) was telling me about a new organization she had just joined--Scientists & Engineers for America (SEA). This organization, launched in September of this year, works to protect the research of scientists and incorporate their scientific research into the political realm. Hark! Imagine a United States where sound science, technology, and those who know it best are incorporated into the decision-making process! Check out this excerpt from their website:

The principal role of the science and technology community is to advance human understanding.  But there are times when this is not enough.  Scientists and engineers have a right, indeed an obligation, to enter the political debate when the nation’s leaders systematically ignore scientific evidence and analysis, put ideological interests ahead of scientific truths, suppress valid scientific evidence and harass and threaten scientists for speaking honestly about their research.

We ask every American who values scientific integrity in decision-making to join us in endorsing a basic Bill of Rights for Scientists and Engineers.  Together we will elect new leadership beginning in 2006, and we will continue to work to elect reasonable leadership in federal, state and local elections for years to come.

SEA has six main issues of focus: national security, energy, environment, health, education, and economic growth. They support innovative technologies to reduce mercury emissions, to make "economically attractive and environmentally intelligent use" of our waterways and our land, to set goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, to increase energy efficient standards for vehicles, and much more.

If you're interested in getting involved, sign SEA's Bill of Rights and receive more information on how you can help the effort.