Nobody argues that science is perfect, but it has been an essential part of making us what we are, argues former Australian Chief Scientist Ian Chubb.
There will always be people who call for additional review or scrutiny of science when the results of a rigorous process don’t yield the outcomes they want.
Effectively they want incontrovertible evidence, and anything less is unacceptable to them. Incontrovertible evidence is rare in science, so it is easy to pick some cherry and use it to seed controversy and delay action.
History shows how effective the strategy has been. It also shows why the notion of the precautionary principle is so important. The principle requires that precautionary measures should be taken if the risk or threats of harm to (say) the environment are significant. It can mean taking action in the face of uncertainty.
The CSIRO has been forced to tell Australia’s next generation of scientists to get an ABN, as it tries to skirt around the public service staffing cap by hiring new talent as external contractors.
Nominations opened on Wednesday, 4 September 2019 for a range of vacant CPSU positions. Nominations close 12 noon (AEST) Wednesday, 25 September 2019 at the office or postal address of the Returning Officer.