Toxicologic Pathology Forum Opinion*: In Defense of Scientific Freedom

Science is a lodestar in the search for knowledge to successfully steer societies through the stormy seas of a changeable world. Scientists are the navigators, using experiments and reason to find answers that expand basic knowledge and influence applications (e.g., public policymaking and risk assessment). An understanding of the scientific method generally and in-depth comprehension of a scientific field specifically are limited in many adults today, both among the public and in cultural and political leaders. Accordingly, scientists must vigorously defend science by upholding two core principles: (1) scientists must be free to ask and answer questions without concern for subjective cultural, ideological, and political constraints, and (2) the diverse perspectives of scientists based on their unique experiences are essential drivers of scientific innovation and attainment. Toxicologic pathologists have a responsibility to uphold these principles, whether their actions are directed to their institutions, the entire toxicologic pathology profession, or the scientific community and society. Concrete actions available to individual pathologists include communicating support for intellectual freedom of thought and association (orally or in writing) among colleagues or to the public as well as providing services (professional society governance, public political office, scientific advocacy, teaching, etc.) that maintain these principles.