1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:01,800 Welcome back to Meteorology Matters. 2 00:00:03,040 --> 00:00:05,480 You know, usually we dive deep into the world of weather, right? 3 00:00:05,480 --> 00:00:08,600 But today, we're gonna shift gears a little bit. 4 00:00:08,600 --> 00:00:10,640 We're gonna look at something that's got the entire 5 00:00:10,640 --> 00:00:14,440 scientific community kind of buzzing and, you know, concerned. 6 00:00:14,440 --> 00:00:15,280 Oh yeah. 7 00:00:15,280 --> 00:00:17,360 And it's something that I think impacts all of us 8 00:00:17,360 --> 00:00:18,400 in a really big way. 9 00:00:18,400 --> 00:00:19,240 Absolutely. 10 00:00:19,240 --> 00:00:21,520 So scientists across the US, 11 00:00:21,520 --> 00:00:25,000 they're trading their lab coats for protest signs. 12 00:00:25,000 --> 00:00:25,840 Yeah. 13 00:00:25,840 --> 00:00:28,400 And it's not just about like a specific research project 14 00:00:28,400 --> 00:00:29,640 or a funding cut or some. 15 00:00:29,640 --> 00:00:31,200 It's something much bigger. 16 00:00:31,200 --> 00:00:32,040 Much bigger. 17 00:00:32,040 --> 00:00:34,280 They believe science itself is under threat. 18 00:00:34,280 --> 00:00:37,800 It's a pretty significant claim when you think about it. 19 00:00:37,800 --> 00:00:38,640 That's right. 20 00:00:38,640 --> 00:00:41,040 We're seeing this really remarkable wave of activism 21 00:00:41,040 --> 00:00:44,680 from scientists and researchers across really all disciplines. 22 00:00:44,680 --> 00:00:47,800 And, you know, that does make you step back and think, 23 00:00:47,800 --> 00:00:49,040 what is going on here? 24 00:00:49,040 --> 00:00:49,880 What is causing this? 25 00:00:49,880 --> 00:00:50,800 So let's break this down. 26 00:00:50,800 --> 00:00:53,440 What has sparked this kind of sudden surge 27 00:00:53,440 --> 00:00:55,000 in scientific activism? 28 00:00:55,000 --> 00:00:57,060 Well, it's interesting you can really trace the roots 29 00:00:57,060 --> 00:00:59,720 of this current movement back to, you know, 30 00:00:59,720 --> 00:01:02,600 a series of policy changes and budget cuts 31 00:01:02,600 --> 00:01:05,360 that really started gaining momentum 32 00:01:05,360 --> 00:01:07,920 during President Trump's second term. 33 00:01:07,920 --> 00:01:08,760 Oh yeah. 34 00:01:08,760 --> 00:01:09,920 And we're talking about, you know, 35 00:01:09,920 --> 00:01:12,800 funding freezes for research that a lot of scientists 36 00:01:12,800 --> 00:01:16,120 consider vital, you know, even grant reviews 37 00:01:16,120 --> 00:01:18,240 that a lot of people see as really targeting 38 00:01:18,240 --> 00:01:20,040 diversity initiatives. 39 00:01:20,040 --> 00:01:23,200 And there have even been mass layoffs of federal scientists. 40 00:01:23,200 --> 00:01:24,040 Wow. 41 00:01:24,040 --> 00:01:24,880 It sounds like a lot of scientists 42 00:01:24,880 --> 00:01:27,560 are feeling like the very foundation of their work 43 00:01:27,560 --> 00:01:28,400 is being undermined. 44 00:01:28,400 --> 00:01:29,240 Oh, absolutely. 45 00:01:29,240 --> 00:01:31,320 And it's not just, you know, theoretical principles 46 00:01:31,320 --> 00:01:33,280 or sort of abstract ideas. 47 00:01:33,280 --> 00:01:36,000 This is having real world consequences for people. 48 00:01:36,000 --> 00:01:38,520 I mean, you just look at some of the major institutions, 49 00:01:38,520 --> 00:01:39,760 the National Institutes of Health, 50 00:01:39,760 --> 00:01:41,360 the National Science Foundation, 51 00:01:41,360 --> 00:01:45,560 even NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration, 52 00:01:45,560 --> 00:01:48,560 they've all experienced significant budget cuts. 53 00:01:48,560 --> 00:01:51,040 And that directly impacts the amount of research 54 00:01:51,040 --> 00:01:51,840 that they can do. 55 00:01:51,840 --> 00:01:53,920 And it trickles down to universities and research 56 00:01:53,920 --> 00:01:55,520 institutions all across the country too. 57 00:01:55,520 --> 00:01:56,360 Right. 58 00:01:56,360 --> 00:01:57,200 Oh, absolutely. 59 00:01:57,200 --> 00:01:59,040 I mean, think about a place like the University of Connecticut, 60 00:01:59,040 --> 00:02:00,120 for example. 61 00:02:00,120 --> 00:02:02,880 A lot of their research programs are heavily reliant 62 00:02:02,880 --> 00:02:06,800 on grants that they get from the National Science Foundation. 63 00:02:06,800 --> 00:02:08,880 And so when that funding dries up, 64 00:02:08,880 --> 00:02:11,120 well, that's going to slow down the pace of discovery. 65 00:02:11,120 --> 00:02:13,600 And ultimately, that affects all of us. 66 00:02:13,600 --> 00:02:15,080 Out of this frustration, right? 67 00:02:15,080 --> 00:02:18,080 This feeling that maybe their voices aren't being heard, 68 00:02:18,080 --> 00:02:19,840 a movement has kind of bubbled up. 69 00:02:19,840 --> 00:02:22,040 It's called stand up for science. 70 00:02:22,040 --> 00:02:23,200 That's right. 71 00:02:23,200 --> 00:02:26,560 It's really interesting because this isn't just 72 00:02:26,560 --> 00:02:29,240 a few disgruntled scientists that are complaining. 73 00:02:29,240 --> 00:02:31,600 This is a really organized effort. 74 00:02:31,600 --> 00:02:34,800 Stand up for science is planning a nationwide protest. 75 00:02:34,800 --> 00:02:37,360 And it's happening on March 7, 2025, 76 00:02:37,360 --> 00:02:39,640 so in just a couple of weeks. 77 00:02:39,640 --> 00:02:41,000 And it's not just one location. 78 00:02:41,000 --> 00:02:44,240 We're talking about rallies that are planned in 32 major cities 79 00:02:44,240 --> 00:02:45,000 across the country. 80 00:02:45,000 --> 00:02:46,000 32 cities. 81 00:02:46,000 --> 00:02:46,360 Yeah. 82 00:02:46,360 --> 00:02:48,400 And it's all going to culminate with this main event 83 00:02:48,400 --> 00:02:49,600 in Washington, DC. 84 00:02:49,600 --> 00:02:52,120 That's a pretty significant mobilization effort. 85 00:02:52,120 --> 00:02:53,480 It sounds like they're really trying 86 00:02:53,480 --> 00:02:55,200 to send a loud and clear message. 87 00:02:55,200 --> 00:02:56,360 Oh, absolutely. 88 00:02:56,360 --> 00:03:00,040 Their goal is to make it crystal clear to the government 89 00:03:00,040 --> 00:03:03,040 that science is vital to our society. 90 00:03:03,040 --> 00:03:05,040 It benefits everyone. 91 00:03:05,040 --> 00:03:06,960 And it needs to be protected. 92 00:03:06,960 --> 00:03:08,840 It needs to be shielded from this kind 93 00:03:08,840 --> 00:03:10,560 of political interference. 94 00:03:10,560 --> 00:03:13,640 You know, it's interesting because scientists, by nature, 95 00:03:13,640 --> 00:03:16,440 they're often trained to be objective, right? 96 00:03:16,440 --> 00:03:16,840 Right. 97 00:03:16,840 --> 00:03:19,280 To focus on data, to focus on evidence. 98 00:03:19,280 --> 00:03:19,840 Absolutely. 99 00:03:19,840 --> 00:03:20,760 But yet here they are. 100 00:03:20,760 --> 00:03:22,040 They're stepping out of their labs. 101 00:03:22,040 --> 00:03:23,400 They're stepping out of the classroom. 102 00:03:23,400 --> 00:03:24,880 And they're stepping into the streets. 103 00:03:24,880 --> 00:03:27,120 They're becoming advocates for their work. 104 00:03:27,120 --> 00:03:27,400 Yeah. 105 00:03:27,400 --> 00:03:30,240 And you know what I think is really compelling about this 106 00:03:30,240 --> 00:03:33,760 is that these aren't just nameless, faceless researchers 107 00:03:33,760 --> 00:03:35,080 that are part of this movement. 108 00:03:35,080 --> 00:03:37,120 These are real people with personal stories 109 00:03:37,120 --> 00:03:38,480 who are putting themselves out there. 110 00:03:38,480 --> 00:03:38,960 Yeah. 111 00:03:38,960 --> 00:03:40,360 And they're leading this movement. 112 00:03:40,360 --> 00:03:43,560 And I think that really humanizes this whole struggle 113 00:03:43,560 --> 00:03:46,280 for science in a way that we haven't seen before. 114 00:03:46,280 --> 00:03:47,160 It does. 115 00:03:47,160 --> 00:03:49,440 And we have people like Colette Della Wallach. 116 00:03:49,440 --> 00:03:52,240 She's a PhD candidate in clinical psychology at Emory 117 00:03:52,240 --> 00:03:52,960 University. 118 00:03:52,960 --> 00:03:53,440 Yeah. 119 00:03:53,440 --> 00:03:54,720 And we have Emma Courtney. 120 00:03:54,720 --> 00:03:57,400 She's a PhD candidate in biology at Cold Spring 121 00:03:57,400 --> 00:03:58,480 Harbor Laboratory. 122 00:03:58,480 --> 00:04:00,040 These are people who are stepping outside 123 00:04:00,040 --> 00:04:01,240 of their comfort zone. 124 00:04:01,240 --> 00:04:02,880 They're becoming the face of this movement. 125 00:04:02,880 --> 00:04:06,520 And like you said, it really does humanize this whole struggle 126 00:04:06,520 --> 00:04:07,240 for science. 127 00:04:07,240 --> 00:04:07,560 Yeah. 128 00:04:07,560 --> 00:04:10,040 And I think it also just highlights the sense of urgency 129 00:04:10,040 --> 00:04:11,760 that a lot of these researchers are feeling. 130 00:04:11,760 --> 00:04:14,400 I mean, this isn't just about some academic disagreement. 131 00:04:14,400 --> 00:04:16,960 They're not just nitpicking about data points. 132 00:04:16,960 --> 00:04:21,520 They see these changes as a real existential threat 133 00:04:21,520 --> 00:04:23,560 to the scientific enterprise itself. 134 00:04:23,560 --> 00:04:25,560 Now, this isn't the first time that we've 135 00:04:25,560 --> 00:04:27,840 seen scientists rally for science. 136 00:04:27,840 --> 00:04:29,000 That's true. 137 00:04:29,000 --> 00:04:32,480 Back in 2017, during Trump's first term, 138 00:04:32,480 --> 00:04:34,160 we saw the March for Science. 139 00:04:34,160 --> 00:04:34,600 Right. 140 00:04:34,600 --> 00:04:36,560 So how does this stand-up for science movement 141 00:04:36,560 --> 00:04:38,640 compare to that earlier effort? 142 00:04:38,640 --> 00:04:40,920 Well, I think there's some interesting distinctions. 143 00:04:40,920 --> 00:04:43,280 While the March for Science was this global event that 144 00:04:43,280 --> 00:04:47,160 drew huge crowds and generated a lot of media buzz, 145 00:04:47,160 --> 00:04:48,600 I think the stand-up for science movement 146 00:04:48,600 --> 00:04:50,160 is a little bit more targeted. 147 00:04:50,160 --> 00:04:50,480 OK. 148 00:04:50,480 --> 00:04:54,480 It seems to be more focused on specific policy changes. 149 00:04:54,480 --> 00:04:56,320 They're not just trying to get attention. 150 00:04:56,320 --> 00:04:59,880 They're actually directly engaging with lawmakers. 151 00:04:59,880 --> 00:05:02,720 They're pushing for specific legislation. 152 00:05:02,720 --> 00:05:04,880 So it's less about raising awareness and more 153 00:05:04,880 --> 00:05:07,040 about actually taking action. 154 00:05:07,040 --> 00:05:08,440 I think that's a good way to put it. 155 00:05:08,440 --> 00:05:08,840 Yeah. 156 00:05:08,840 --> 00:05:10,240 They're not just making noise. 157 00:05:10,240 --> 00:05:13,680 They have a really clear set of demands. 158 00:05:13,680 --> 00:05:16,480 And they seem to have a real strategy in place 159 00:05:16,480 --> 00:05:18,280 for achieving them. 160 00:05:18,280 --> 00:05:21,360 And that brings us to this whole debate 161 00:05:21,360 --> 00:05:23,520 about the politicization of science. 162 00:05:23,520 --> 00:05:24,080 Right. 163 00:05:24,080 --> 00:05:26,360 Is science inherently political? 164 00:05:26,360 --> 00:05:26,800 Yeah. 165 00:05:26,800 --> 00:05:29,720 Or is it something that should be completely separate 166 00:05:29,720 --> 00:05:31,560 from the political arena? 167 00:05:31,560 --> 00:05:34,800 That's a really tough question, because on the one hand, 168 00:05:34,800 --> 00:05:36,640 science is supposed to be objective. 169 00:05:36,640 --> 00:05:39,200 It's supposed to be driven by data and evidence. 170 00:05:39,200 --> 00:05:40,080 That's right. 171 00:05:40,080 --> 00:05:42,680 But on the other hand, we can't ignore the fact 172 00:05:42,680 --> 00:05:44,880 that government funding decisions 173 00:05:44,880 --> 00:05:47,320 play a huge role in shaping the direction 174 00:05:47,320 --> 00:05:48,480 of scientific research. 175 00:05:48,480 --> 00:05:49,040 They do. 176 00:05:49,040 --> 00:05:49,680 Absolutely. 177 00:05:49,680 --> 00:05:51,400 And it's a tricky balance to strike. 178 00:05:51,400 --> 00:05:52,040 It is. 179 00:05:52,040 --> 00:05:54,000 And then even beyond that, there's 180 00:05:54,000 --> 00:05:55,960 this whole question of whether scientists should 181 00:05:55,960 --> 00:05:58,120 engage in political activism at all. 182 00:05:58,120 --> 00:05:58,440 Right. 183 00:05:58,440 --> 00:06:01,040 Some people argue that it compromises their objectivity. 184 00:06:01,040 --> 00:06:01,360 Right. 185 00:06:01,360 --> 00:06:04,080 Or that it alienates segments of the public. 186 00:06:04,080 --> 00:06:04,640 Yeah. 187 00:06:04,640 --> 00:06:08,080 Take, for instance, nature's endorsement of Joe Biden 188 00:06:08,080 --> 00:06:09,280 in the 2020 election. 189 00:06:09,280 --> 00:06:10,560 Oh, right. 190 00:06:10,560 --> 00:06:13,760 Some people argued that that move actually eroded trust 191 00:06:13,760 --> 00:06:15,920 in scientists among Trump supporters. 192 00:06:15,920 --> 00:06:17,080 That's a valid point. 193 00:06:17,080 --> 00:06:19,880 And I think it really highlights the potential risks 194 00:06:19,880 --> 00:06:22,600 that scientists face when they take these kind 195 00:06:22,600 --> 00:06:25,040 of overtly political stances. 196 00:06:25,040 --> 00:06:27,880 So it seems like scientists are facing this real dilemma. 197 00:06:27,880 --> 00:06:28,400 They are. 198 00:06:28,400 --> 00:06:31,640 They feel compelled to speak out against policies 199 00:06:31,640 --> 00:06:33,760 that they see as really harmful to science. 200 00:06:33,760 --> 00:06:34,280 Right. 201 00:06:34,280 --> 00:06:35,840 But at the same time, they're worried 202 00:06:35,840 --> 00:06:39,520 about jeopardizing their credibility and public trust. 203 00:06:39,520 --> 00:06:39,880 Yeah. 204 00:06:39,880 --> 00:06:41,840 No, it's definitely a delicate tightrope walk. 205 00:06:41,840 --> 00:06:44,320 And it's one that's at the heart of this whole stand-up 206 00:06:44,320 --> 00:06:45,840 for science movement. 207 00:06:45,840 --> 00:06:47,440 So let's talk about the specifics here. 208 00:06:47,440 --> 00:06:47,960 Yeah. 209 00:06:47,960 --> 00:06:51,520 What are the concrete goals of stand-up for science? 210 00:06:51,520 --> 00:06:53,280 What exactly are they demanding? 211 00:06:53,280 --> 00:06:55,920 Well, they've actually laid out a pretty comprehensive set 212 00:06:55,920 --> 00:06:57,760 of policy proposals. 213 00:06:57,760 --> 00:07:00,040 And I think, first and foremost, they're 214 00:07:00,040 --> 00:07:03,600 calling for increased funding for scientific research. 215 00:07:03,600 --> 00:07:04,160 Makes sense. 216 00:07:04,160 --> 00:07:06,840 They argue that current funding levels are simply 217 00:07:06,840 --> 00:07:09,360 inadequate to address the pressing challenges 218 00:07:09,360 --> 00:07:10,680 that our society is facing. 219 00:07:10,680 --> 00:07:13,440 You can't expect groundbreaking discoveries 220 00:07:13,440 --> 00:07:15,720 without the resources to actually back them up. 221 00:07:15,720 --> 00:07:16,960 Exactly. 222 00:07:16,960 --> 00:07:19,680 You've got to have the money to do the research. 223 00:07:19,680 --> 00:07:20,760 What else is on there, Jeff? 224 00:07:20,760 --> 00:07:22,800 Well, they're also demanding an end 225 00:07:22,800 --> 00:07:25,520 to what they perceive as censorship and political 226 00:07:25,520 --> 00:07:27,680 interference in research. 227 00:07:27,680 --> 00:07:30,040 They argue that scientists need to have the freedom 228 00:07:30,040 --> 00:07:33,760 to pursue their work without fear of reprisal, 229 00:07:33,760 --> 00:07:36,000 without being afraid of political pressure. 230 00:07:36,000 --> 00:07:38,000 They need to be able to follow the evidence 231 00:07:38,000 --> 00:07:39,280 wherever it leads. 232 00:07:39,280 --> 00:07:42,320 Which is crucial, because if research is being suppressed 233 00:07:42,320 --> 00:07:44,560 or manipulated for political reasons, 234 00:07:44,560 --> 00:07:47,040 that undermines the entire scientific process. 235 00:07:47,040 --> 00:07:47,800 Absolutely. 236 00:07:47,800 --> 00:07:48,880 It really does. 237 00:07:48,880 --> 00:07:50,760 And then finally, they're advocating 238 00:07:50,760 --> 00:07:52,560 for greater diversity, equity, inclusion, 239 00:07:52,560 --> 00:07:54,520 and accessibility in science. 240 00:07:54,520 --> 00:07:57,040 They really believe that science should be open to everyone, 241 00:07:57,040 --> 00:07:59,720 regardless of background or identity, 242 00:07:59,720 --> 00:08:02,120 and that a more diverse scientific community 243 00:08:02,120 --> 00:08:05,440 is ultimately going to lead to richer insights 244 00:08:05,440 --> 00:08:06,960 and more robust discoveries. 245 00:08:06,960 --> 00:08:08,840 That's a message that resonates far 246 00:08:08,840 --> 00:08:10,720 beyond the scientific community, I think. 247 00:08:10,720 --> 00:08:11,400 It does. 248 00:08:11,400 --> 00:08:14,680 It's about ensuring that everyone has the opportunity 249 00:08:14,680 --> 00:08:18,960 to contribute to and benefit from scientific progress. 250 00:08:18,960 --> 00:08:20,560 Yeah, I think that's right. 251 00:08:20,560 --> 00:08:21,680 So they've got their demands. 252 00:08:21,680 --> 00:08:22,920 They've laid them out. 253 00:08:22,920 --> 00:08:25,760 The question is, are those demands going to be heard? 254 00:08:25,760 --> 00:08:28,280 And what role can the public play 255 00:08:28,280 --> 00:08:29,960 in amplifying those voices? 256 00:08:29,960 --> 00:08:31,640 That's a key question. 257 00:08:31,640 --> 00:08:35,160 Because ultimately, this isn't just a fight for scientists. 258 00:08:35,160 --> 00:08:36,360 This affects all of us. 259 00:08:36,360 --> 00:08:37,120 It really does. 260 00:08:37,120 --> 00:08:39,680 Science impacts our lives in countless ways. 261 00:08:39,680 --> 00:08:40,120 Oh, yeah. 262 00:08:40,120 --> 00:08:42,280 I mean, from the technology we use, 263 00:08:42,280 --> 00:08:43,600 to the medicines that we rely on, 264 00:08:43,600 --> 00:08:45,320 to the very air that we breathe. 265 00:08:45,320 --> 00:08:46,000 Absolutely. 266 00:08:46,000 --> 00:08:48,320 So for those of you listening, what can you do 267 00:08:48,320 --> 00:08:50,080 to actually get involved in this movement? 268 00:08:50,080 --> 00:08:51,520 Well, I think there are a number of ways 269 00:08:51,520 --> 00:08:52,920 that people can make a difference. 270 00:08:52,920 --> 00:08:57,120 First, consider attending a local standup for science rally. 271 00:08:57,120 --> 00:08:57,480 Right. 272 00:08:57,480 --> 00:09:00,280 There are events planned all over the country. 273 00:09:00,280 --> 00:09:03,120 So chances are, there's probably one happening here you. 274 00:09:03,120 --> 00:09:05,160 And if you can't make it to a rally, 275 00:09:05,160 --> 00:09:07,600 you can participate in the planned walkout that's 276 00:09:07,600 --> 00:09:10,160 happening at noon on March 7. 277 00:09:10,160 --> 00:09:12,360 It's a symbolic act of solidarity. 278 00:09:12,360 --> 00:09:15,560 But it really does send a powerful message of support. 279 00:09:15,560 --> 00:09:16,480 It does. 280 00:09:16,480 --> 00:09:20,600 And even if you can't physically attend an event, 281 00:09:20,600 --> 00:09:22,480 there are still other ways to contribute. 282 00:09:22,480 --> 00:09:24,080 You could sign petitions. 283 00:09:24,080 --> 00:09:26,560 You can contact your elected officials. 284 00:09:26,560 --> 00:09:29,240 Or you can support scientific organizations 285 00:09:29,240 --> 00:09:31,400 that align with your values. 286 00:09:31,400 --> 00:09:34,160 I think every voice counts in this fight. 287 00:09:34,160 --> 00:09:36,400 It's not just about showing up. 288 00:09:36,400 --> 00:09:38,080 It's about staying informed. 289 00:09:38,080 --> 00:09:38,360 Yeah. 290 00:09:38,360 --> 00:09:40,640 Having conversations with your friends and family. 291 00:09:40,640 --> 00:09:41,400 Absolutely. 292 00:09:41,400 --> 00:09:43,200 About why science matters. 293 00:09:43,200 --> 00:09:46,040 And engaging in thoughtful debate. 294 00:09:46,040 --> 00:09:46,480 Right. 295 00:09:46,480 --> 00:09:48,800 About the role of science in our society. 296 00:09:48,800 --> 00:09:50,760 I think this whole movement has sparked 297 00:09:50,760 --> 00:09:52,960 a really crucial conversation about the relationship 298 00:09:52,960 --> 00:09:56,200 between science politics and public perception. 299 00:09:56,200 --> 00:09:58,600 And it's a conversation that we all need to be a part of. 300 00:09:58,600 --> 00:09:59,200 It is. 301 00:09:59,200 --> 00:10:01,160 And hopefully we've kind of given you 302 00:10:01,160 --> 00:10:02,440 some things to think about. 303 00:10:02,440 --> 00:10:02,800 Yeah. 304 00:10:02,800 --> 00:10:04,000 With this whole situation. 305 00:10:04,000 --> 00:10:05,360 Stand up for science. 306 00:10:05,360 --> 00:10:06,760 And like you said, it's a conversation 307 00:10:06,760 --> 00:10:08,320 that we all need to be having. 308 00:10:08,320 --> 00:10:10,840 And we'll be back next time with part two 309 00:10:10,840 --> 00:10:12,960 of our coverage of this whole situation. 310 00:10:12,960 --> 00:10:14,920 With scientists protesting and marching 311 00:10:14,920 --> 00:10:17,200 and trying to make sure that science is protected 312 00:10:17,200 --> 00:10:18,040 in this country. 313 00:10:18,040 --> 00:10:18,640 I'll see that. 314 00:10:18,640 --> 00:10:18,960 OK. 315 00:10:18,960 --> 00:10:20,000 Sounds good. 316 00:10:20,000 --> 00:10:21,760 This whole situation, it really 317 00:10:21,760 --> 00:10:25,680 makes you think about that delicate balance between science 318 00:10:25,680 --> 00:10:26,720 and politics. 319 00:10:26,720 --> 00:10:28,800 Like they're these two separate worlds. 320 00:10:28,800 --> 00:10:31,520 But they're constantly bumping up against each other. 321 00:10:31,520 --> 00:10:31,880 Yeah. 322 00:10:31,880 --> 00:10:34,160 It's a very complex relationship for sure. 323 00:10:34,160 --> 00:10:35,800 And I think looking back at history 324 00:10:35,800 --> 00:10:37,800 can actually give us some valuable perspective 325 00:10:37,800 --> 00:10:40,120 on how this dynamic has played out over time. 326 00:10:40,120 --> 00:10:40,400 Yeah. 327 00:10:40,400 --> 00:10:41,160 That's a great point. 328 00:10:41,160 --> 00:10:42,680 I mean, we often think of science 329 00:10:42,680 --> 00:10:45,720 as this pure pursuit of knowledge. 330 00:10:45,720 --> 00:10:48,200 But it's never really existed in a vacuum. 331 00:10:48,200 --> 00:10:51,520 It's always been intertwined with the social and political 332 00:10:51,520 --> 00:10:52,560 currents of the time. 333 00:10:52,560 --> 00:10:53,120 Exactly. 334 00:10:53,120 --> 00:10:55,280 I mean, think about Galileo, for example. 335 00:10:55,280 --> 00:10:58,360 His groundbreaking astronomical observations, 336 00:10:58,360 --> 00:11:01,200 they directly challenged the dominant religious views 337 00:11:01,200 --> 00:11:01,680 of the time. 338 00:11:01,680 --> 00:11:02,080 Right. 339 00:11:02,080 --> 00:11:05,040 And then a few centuries later, you have Darwin. 340 00:11:05,040 --> 00:11:08,320 His theory of evolution sparked these really fierce debates. 341 00:11:08,320 --> 00:11:10,280 And they had repercussions far beyond just 342 00:11:10,280 --> 00:11:11,400 the scientific community. 343 00:11:11,400 --> 00:11:13,400 Those are perfect examples. 344 00:11:13,400 --> 00:11:15,960 It seems like whenever scientific discoveries 345 00:11:15,960 --> 00:11:18,920 challenge the status quo, whatever they 346 00:11:18,920 --> 00:11:21,800 force us to reexamine our long held beliefs, 347 00:11:21,800 --> 00:11:23,640 it inevitably triggers a backlash. 348 00:11:23,640 --> 00:11:24,760 Absolutely. 349 00:11:24,760 --> 00:11:26,760 Those impositions of power, those who 350 00:11:26,760 --> 00:11:29,400 benefit from the existing order, they often 351 00:11:29,400 --> 00:11:32,240 feel threatened by new scientific knowledge. 352 00:11:32,240 --> 00:11:33,960 And their first instinct is to try 353 00:11:33,960 --> 00:11:36,880 to discredit the science or to silence the scientists. 354 00:11:36,880 --> 00:11:37,880 That makes sense. 355 00:11:37,880 --> 00:11:40,120 And we're seeing this play out today with climate change, 356 00:11:40,120 --> 00:11:40,520 aren't we? 357 00:11:40,520 --> 00:11:41,640 Oh, absolutely. 358 00:11:41,640 --> 00:11:43,560 I mean, the scientific evidence is overwhelming. 359 00:11:43,560 --> 00:11:45,200 But there are these powerful interests 360 00:11:45,200 --> 00:11:49,000 that are actively trying to sow doubt and downplay the risks. 361 00:11:49,000 --> 00:11:49,760 Precisely. 362 00:11:49,760 --> 00:11:51,080 And it's not just climate change. 363 00:11:51,080 --> 00:11:52,840 We see similar tactics being used 364 00:11:52,840 --> 00:11:56,080 to undermine confidence in vaccines, genetic engineering, 365 00:11:56,080 --> 00:11:59,000 even basic scientific principles like evolution. 366 00:11:59,000 --> 00:12:01,040 It's almost like there's this constant struggle 367 00:12:01,040 --> 00:12:02,760 for control over the narrative. 368 00:12:02,760 --> 00:12:03,360 Yeah. 369 00:12:03,360 --> 00:12:06,360 You know, who gets to decide what's true, what's acceptable, 370 00:12:06,360 --> 00:12:07,640 and what gets funded. 371 00:12:07,640 --> 00:12:08,920 That's a great way to put it. 372 00:12:08,920 --> 00:12:11,240 It's a battle for hearts and minds. 373 00:12:11,240 --> 00:12:13,720 And ultimately, it's a battle over the future direction 374 00:12:13,720 --> 00:12:14,800 of our society. 375 00:12:14,800 --> 00:12:17,760 So in the midst of all of this, where do scientists themselves 376 00:12:17,760 --> 00:12:18,680 stand? 377 00:12:18,680 --> 00:12:20,880 And what role should they play in this battle? 378 00:12:20,880 --> 00:12:23,760 Should they just stay in their labs, focus on the research, 379 00:12:23,760 --> 00:12:25,960 or should they step into the public arena 380 00:12:25,960 --> 00:12:27,840 and become advocates for their work? 381 00:12:27,840 --> 00:12:28,320 Yeah. 382 00:12:28,320 --> 00:12:30,800 That is the million dollar question. 383 00:12:30,800 --> 00:12:33,360 There are valid arguments to be made on both sides. 384 00:12:33,360 --> 00:12:33,640 Right. 385 00:12:33,640 --> 00:12:35,120 You know, on the one hand, scientists 386 00:12:35,120 --> 00:12:37,400 are trained to be objective unbiased. 387 00:12:37,400 --> 00:12:40,200 Their credibility really hinges on their ability 388 00:12:40,200 --> 00:12:42,960 to let the data speak for itself, 389 00:12:42,960 --> 00:12:46,000 to not let their personal opinions cloud their judgment. 390 00:12:46,000 --> 00:12:46,880 I can see that. 391 00:12:46,880 --> 00:12:47,280 Yeah. 392 00:12:47,280 --> 00:12:49,560 But if scientists stay silent, especially when 393 00:12:49,560 --> 00:12:52,360 they see scientific integrity being undermined, 394 00:12:52,360 --> 00:12:54,360 or scientific findings being disordered 395 00:12:54,360 --> 00:12:56,680 for political gain, then who will speak up? 396 00:12:56,680 --> 00:12:57,920 That's a really important point. 397 00:12:57,920 --> 00:12:59,640 And it's a dilemma that a lot of scientists 398 00:12:59,640 --> 00:13:00,880 are grappling with right now. 399 00:13:00,880 --> 00:13:03,160 It's this delicate balancing act, 400 00:13:03,160 --> 00:13:06,480 navigating between the imperative to remain objective 401 00:13:06,480 --> 00:13:09,200 and the responsibility to defend the integrity of science. 402 00:13:09,200 --> 00:13:11,040 It sounds like the stand up for science movement. 403 00:13:11,040 --> 00:13:13,600 They've made the decision that the risks of silence 404 00:13:13,600 --> 00:13:15,200 outweigh the risks of speaking out. 405 00:13:15,200 --> 00:13:16,120 I think that's right. 406 00:13:16,120 --> 00:13:18,360 They're willing to step outside of their comfort zones 407 00:13:18,360 --> 00:13:20,840 to engage in a more public and political way, 408 00:13:20,840 --> 00:13:23,640 even if it means facing criticism or backlash. 409 00:13:23,640 --> 00:13:24,720 It's a bold move. 410 00:13:24,720 --> 00:13:25,120 Yeah. 411 00:13:25,120 --> 00:13:27,240 And they're not alone. 412 00:13:27,240 --> 00:13:30,040 We're seeing similar movements gaining momentum 413 00:13:30,040 --> 00:13:31,640 all around the world. 414 00:13:31,640 --> 00:13:34,880 As scientists grow increasingly concerned 415 00:13:34,880 --> 00:13:37,360 about the erosion of public trust in science 416 00:13:37,360 --> 00:13:39,040 and the spread of misinformation. 417 00:13:39,040 --> 00:13:39,360 Yeah. 418 00:13:39,360 --> 00:13:41,360 It's definitely a global phenomenon. 419 00:13:41,360 --> 00:13:43,520 And I think it reflects a deeper anxiety 420 00:13:43,520 --> 00:13:45,600 about the future of our planet, the stability 421 00:13:45,600 --> 00:13:48,600 of our institutions, and the very foundations of knowledge 422 00:13:48,600 --> 00:13:49,040 itself. 423 00:13:49,040 --> 00:13:50,880 It's like a wake up call reminding us 424 00:13:50,880 --> 00:13:53,600 that science isn't just some abstract pursuit that's 425 00:13:53,600 --> 00:13:55,200 divorced from the real world. 426 00:13:55,200 --> 00:13:58,960 It's inextricably linked to our social, our political, 427 00:13:58,960 --> 00:14:00,520 and our economic systems. 428 00:14:00,520 --> 00:14:02,800 And those systems are facing unprecedented challenges 429 00:14:02,800 --> 00:14:03,320 right now. 430 00:14:03,320 --> 00:14:06,520 We're living in an era of heightened polarization, 431 00:14:06,520 --> 00:14:08,680 widespread distrust of institutions 432 00:14:08,680 --> 00:14:11,240 and this overwhelming deluge of information. 433 00:14:11,240 --> 00:14:12,440 Much of it unreliable. 434 00:14:12,440 --> 00:14:13,920 And that makes it more difficult than ever 435 00:14:13,920 --> 00:14:16,560 to have rational, evidence-based conversations 436 00:14:16,560 --> 00:14:18,360 about complex issues. 437 00:14:18,360 --> 00:14:20,440 So how do we ensure that science can continue 438 00:14:20,440 --> 00:14:23,360 to play its vital role in guiding our decisions, 439 00:14:23,360 --> 00:14:26,440 informing public policy, and shaping the future? 440 00:14:26,440 --> 00:14:29,400 Especially in this challenging environment that we're in. 441 00:14:29,400 --> 00:14:32,280 That's the crucial question we need to be asking ourselves. 442 00:14:32,280 --> 00:14:34,600 And I think it's not simply about providing more funding 443 00:14:34,600 --> 00:14:37,880 for research or training more scientists. 444 00:14:37,880 --> 00:14:40,920 It's about cultivating a societal mindset that 445 00:14:40,920 --> 00:14:45,160 values evidence-based reasoning, critical thinking, 446 00:14:45,160 --> 00:14:47,760 and a willingness to engage with complex, often 447 00:14:47,760 --> 00:14:49,520 uncomfortable truths. 448 00:14:49,520 --> 00:14:51,560 We need to foster a culture that recognizes 449 00:14:51,560 --> 00:14:54,920 that science isn't about being right or wrong all the time. 450 00:14:54,920 --> 00:14:57,160 It's a process of continual exploration, 451 00:14:57,160 --> 00:14:59,680 questioning and revising our understanding of the world 452 00:14:59,680 --> 00:15:01,440 based on new evidence. 453 00:15:01,440 --> 00:15:03,920 And sometimes that means acknowledging that we were wrong, 454 00:15:03,920 --> 00:15:05,920 that our previous assumptions were flawed. 455 00:15:05,920 --> 00:15:07,200 Absolutely. 456 00:15:07,200 --> 00:15:10,080 Embracing uncertainty, being open to new evidence, 457 00:15:10,080 --> 00:15:11,760 and engaging in respectful dialogue. 458 00:15:11,760 --> 00:15:13,480 I mean, those are all essential components 459 00:15:13,480 --> 00:15:15,200 of a healthy scientific mindset. 460 00:15:15,200 --> 00:15:17,520 And that mindset needs to extend beyond the scientific community 461 00:15:17,520 --> 00:15:18,280 itself. 462 00:15:18,280 --> 00:15:20,800 It needs to permeate our media, our education systems, 463 00:15:20,800 --> 00:15:22,360 and our political discourse. 464 00:15:22,360 --> 00:15:23,520 You're absolutely right. 465 00:15:23,520 --> 00:15:26,080 I mean, we need to equip everyone with the tools 466 00:15:26,080 --> 00:15:28,280 to critically evaluate information, 467 00:15:28,280 --> 00:15:31,040 to distinguish between credible evidence and misleading 468 00:15:31,040 --> 00:15:34,240 claims, and to engage in constructive conversations 469 00:15:34,240 --> 00:15:36,680 about complex issues, even when those conversations are 470 00:15:36,680 --> 00:15:37,480 difficult. 471 00:15:37,480 --> 00:15:39,240 That's a tall order. 472 00:15:39,240 --> 00:15:41,800 But it seems essential if we want to navigate the challenges 473 00:15:41,800 --> 00:15:43,080 of the 21st century. 474 00:15:43,080 --> 00:15:44,680 It is essential. 475 00:15:44,680 --> 00:15:47,400 And it all starts with recognizing that science 476 00:15:47,400 --> 00:15:49,080 isn't just for scientists. 477 00:15:49,080 --> 00:15:50,080 It's for all of us. 478 00:15:50,080 --> 00:15:51,560 It's the foundation of our knowledge. 479 00:15:51,560 --> 00:15:53,400 It's the driver of our progress. 480 00:15:53,400 --> 00:15:56,040 And it's the key to solving the most pressing problems 481 00:15:56,040 --> 00:15:57,320 facing humanity. 482 00:15:57,320 --> 00:15:59,120 It's a shared responsibility, isn't it? 483 00:15:59,120 --> 00:16:01,000 To protect the integrity of science, 484 00:16:01,000 --> 00:16:03,360 to ensure that it's used for the benefit of all, 485 00:16:03,360 --> 00:16:06,280 and to create a future where knowledge and reason guide 486 00:16:06,280 --> 00:16:07,040 our decisions. 487 00:16:07,040 --> 00:16:07,640 Absolutely. 488 00:16:07,640 --> 00:16:09,960 It's a responsibility that we all share. 489 00:16:09,960 --> 00:16:11,600 And the choices that we make today 490 00:16:11,600 --> 00:16:13,200 will determine whether science continues 491 00:16:13,200 --> 00:16:14,840 to be a force for good in the world, 492 00:16:14,840 --> 00:16:17,680 or whether it becomes another casualty of our polarized 493 00:16:17,680 --> 00:16:19,280 and fractured times. 494 00:16:19,280 --> 00:16:22,160 We've been talking about this standup for science movement 495 00:16:22,160 --> 00:16:27,280 and this growing tension between science and politics. 496 00:16:27,280 --> 00:16:29,760 And I think it's left us all with a lot to think about. 497 00:16:29,760 --> 00:16:30,720 It certainly has. 498 00:16:30,720 --> 00:16:33,920 And as we wrap up our conversation here, 499 00:16:33,920 --> 00:16:36,240 it feels like the big question that's looming 500 00:16:36,240 --> 00:16:38,240 is what happens next? 501 00:16:38,240 --> 00:16:42,040 These rallies that are planned, they're a powerful statement. 502 00:16:42,040 --> 00:16:44,640 It's a great way to energize the scientific community 503 00:16:44,640 --> 00:16:46,040 and to get the public's attention. 504 00:16:46,040 --> 00:16:49,000 But how do we keep that momentum going? 505 00:16:49,000 --> 00:16:52,680 A spark needs fuel if you want to turn it into a real fire. 506 00:16:52,680 --> 00:16:53,600 That's true. 507 00:16:53,600 --> 00:16:55,240 So where does that fuel come from? 508 00:16:55,240 --> 00:16:57,320 Well, I think it comes from a few sources. 509 00:16:57,320 --> 00:17:00,920 First, there's the unwavering passion 510 00:17:00,920 --> 00:17:02,400 of the scientists themselves. 511 00:17:02,400 --> 00:17:04,680 I mean, there are the ones that are out there on the front lines. 512 00:17:04,680 --> 00:17:07,320 They're doing the research, they're making the discoveries, 513 00:17:07,320 --> 00:17:11,560 and they're seeing firsthand how political decisions can really 514 00:17:11,560 --> 00:17:12,640 impact their work. 515 00:17:12,640 --> 00:17:15,080 And in some cases, actually, hinder progress. 516 00:17:15,080 --> 00:17:17,000 They're the ones who are taking a stand. 517 00:17:17,000 --> 00:17:18,520 They're putting their reputations on the line 518 00:17:18,520 --> 00:17:19,880 and they're pushing for change. 519 00:17:19,880 --> 00:17:20,920 Exactly. 520 00:17:20,920 --> 00:17:23,920 And it's not just about the scientists themselves. 521 00:17:23,920 --> 00:17:25,920 There's this growing realization, I think, 522 00:17:25,920 --> 00:17:28,440 among the general public that science isn't just 523 00:17:28,440 --> 00:17:30,080 this abstract thing. 524 00:17:30,080 --> 00:17:34,000 It's woven into the very fabric of our lives. 525 00:17:34,000 --> 00:17:36,000 From the medications that we rely on, 526 00:17:36,000 --> 00:17:37,960 to the technology that we use every day, 527 00:17:37,960 --> 00:17:39,680 to the food that we eat. 528 00:17:39,680 --> 00:17:43,200 And so as people become more aware of how deeply science 529 00:17:43,200 --> 00:17:47,080 influences their lives, they're more likely to demand 530 00:17:47,080 --> 00:17:48,840 that it be protected and supported. 531 00:17:48,840 --> 00:17:49,640 That makes sense. 532 00:17:49,640 --> 00:17:50,120 What else? 533 00:17:50,120 --> 00:17:52,320 Well, there's also the power of collective action. 534 00:17:52,320 --> 00:17:54,800 And that's really what the stand up for science movement 535 00:17:54,800 --> 00:17:55,400 is all about. 536 00:17:55,400 --> 00:17:58,680 It's about uniting people, amplifying their voices, 537 00:17:58,680 --> 00:18:00,280 and making sure that those voices are heard 538 00:18:00,280 --> 00:18:01,360 by the people in power. 539 00:18:01,360 --> 00:18:05,200 It's about forging alliances, harnessing resources, 540 00:18:05,200 --> 00:18:07,800 and ultimately applying pressure on decision makers 541 00:18:07,800 --> 00:18:11,120 to prioritize policies that benefit society as a whole. 542 00:18:11,120 --> 00:18:11,480 Yeah. 543 00:18:11,480 --> 00:18:13,440 And importantly, it's about recognizing 544 00:18:13,440 --> 00:18:16,160 that science really transcends political boundaries. 545 00:18:16,160 --> 00:18:18,040 I mean, this is not a partisan issue. 546 00:18:18,040 --> 00:18:19,320 This is a human issue. 547 00:18:19,320 --> 00:18:20,200 It affects us all. 548 00:18:20,200 --> 00:18:21,600 It affects all of us, regardless 549 00:18:21,600 --> 00:18:23,440 of our political affiliations. 550 00:18:23,440 --> 00:18:25,720 So if there's one message that we want our listeners 551 00:18:25,720 --> 00:18:28,360 to take away from this episode, it's this. 552 00:18:28,360 --> 00:18:29,720 Get involved. 553 00:18:29,720 --> 00:18:31,920 Find your own way to support science, 554 00:18:31,920 --> 00:18:34,400 whether it's attending a rally or reaching out 555 00:18:34,400 --> 00:18:36,680 to your elected officials, or even just discussing 556 00:18:36,680 --> 00:18:38,280 these issues with your friends and family. 557 00:18:38,280 --> 00:18:38,440 Yeah. 558 00:18:38,440 --> 00:18:40,160 Become a citizen scientist. 559 00:18:40,160 --> 00:18:41,080 Stay informed. 560 00:18:41,080 --> 00:18:42,000 Stay engaged. 561 00:18:42,000 --> 00:18:45,400 And don't hesitate to speak up for what you believe in. 562 00:18:45,400 --> 00:18:48,160 Because science belongs to everyone, not just the scientists, 563 00:18:48,160 --> 00:18:51,240 not just the politicians, not just the academics. 564 00:18:51,240 --> 00:18:52,880 It's a shared endeavor. 565 00:18:52,880 --> 00:18:55,640 And the future of science really depends on all of us 566 00:18:55,640 --> 00:18:57,880 working together to champion its cause 567 00:18:57,880 --> 00:18:59,680 and to protect its integrity. 568 00:18:59,680 --> 00:19:02,640 As always, thanks for joining us on Meteorology Matters. 569 00:19:02,640 --> 00:19:04,600 For more weather insights and to stay updated 570 00:19:04,600 --> 00:19:07,560 on this crucial conversation, make sure to follow meteorologist 571 00:19:07,560 --> 00:19:08,800 Rob Jones. 572 00:19:08,800 --> 00:19:11,440 You can find him on Instagram at meteorologist on TikTok 573 00:19:11,440 --> 00:19:13,240 as TV meteorologist. 574 00:19:13,240 --> 00:19:15,840 And on YouTube, subscribe to Rob Jones' Hurricane, 575 00:19:15,840 --> 00:19:17,960 where you can also find the Meteorology Matters podcast 576 00:19:17,960 --> 00:19:18,800 playlist. 577 00:19:18,800 --> 00:19:30,320 Until next time, stay curious and keep those minds storming.