The War on Science, Pt. 2




Atheists Talk Cable Show - Video show

Summary: Atheists Talk cable program by Minnesota Atheists. "The War on Science, Pt. 2" recorded 10/13/2016 In October, sciencedebate.org co-founder, Shawn Otto, talked about his latest book, The War on Science. In the first half hour show, Shawn explained what is happening in our government and our culture that has resulted in, essentially, a war on science. He talked about why this is especially a problem in recent years and why it’s an especially grievous situation amongst politicians and political candidates. Shawn delineated three main components of science denial amongst political conservatives - denying the science of reproductive medicine, evolution, and climate change - but was quick to point out that science denial is also an issue among political progressives (especially in the areas of vaccines and GMOs). In the second show, Shawn noted that the war on science is fought on three fronts: the identity politics, the ideological, and the industrial, and he defined what he meant by each term. In evaluating ways in which we can help combat science denial, Shawn talked about his push for science debates among political candidates. He also argued that teachers in both colleges and secondary schools should teach science civics and hold student science debates. He concluded by listing off places where his book is available and by directing viewers to his sites, science debate.org and shawnotto.com. James Zimmerman hosted both episodes. Minnesota Atheists practices positive, inclusive, active, friendly neighborhood atheism in order to: - Provide a community for atheists - Educate the public about atheism - Promote separation of state and church http://www.mnatheists.org/