Scientists in an Environmental Controversy

The present context of public concern for the implications of technological advance brings special pressures to bear on the scientist. He may be called on in an advisory capacity on the basis of his technical expertise; or he may himself feel that the nature of his work obliges him to take a position on public issues. Involvement of scientists in political activity has long been a sensitive and divisive issue within the scientific community, and scientists have traditionally approached political issues with reluctance. 'Politics has been considered an alien element, essentially destructive of scientific endeavour.'3