Letter to the editor: Shutting down scientific debate

Dr. Susan Crockford is a wildlife researcher from Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, whose research has shown that polar bear populations are not declining as claimed by the climate-change establishment, but that polar bears’ numbers are actually increasing.

In 2019, the University of Victoria did not renew her appointment as an adjunct professor, a position she had held for 15 years. She says it’s because she dared to question climate-change orthodoxy. Since she then had no university affiliation, Crockford could not apply for research grants or collaborate with other university scientists, thus potentially destroying her reputation and career.

I believe that, like Crockford, many other professors are hounded or fired for contradicting the man-made climate change narrative. Hence, most researchers remain silent in order to protect their careers.

The establishment claims there is scientific consensus about impending global catastrophe because of man-made climate change, and therefore no debate is necessary. But the history of science is filled with individuals who have stood up to the establishment to make great breakthroughs. Science is about debate, not consensus.

Even brilliant people make colossal blunders, especially when they become blinded by their own arrogance. When brilliant fools gain power, they can lead our society over a cliff. That is why freedom of expression is so important to keep foolishness in check.

So then, why do so many of us who know better lack the courage to speak up?

Dave Majernik

Plum