Sound science
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The term "sound science" has been used in public policy discussions, usually in contrast to "junk science". Typically an advocate will use sound science to describe his side and junk science to describe his opponent's side.
The argument of a "lack of sound science" is often used to discredit concerns of activists and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in fields such as public health, consumer rights, public safety, and environmental risks.
The phrase is often used by corporate business, industry public relations, national and international government agencies, and environmental groups to describe the scientific research that is used to justify their political claims or positions, or to vilify research threathening their interests hence safeguarding their revenue.
"Sound science", however, has no specific scientific definition itself, so the phrase is used subjectively.
[edit] See also
- Front organization
- Public relations
- List of topics related to public relations and propaganda
- Junk science
- Precautionary principle
[edit] References
- Martin Kady II, Mary Clare Jalonick and Amol Sharma, "Dueling Science: Science, Policy Mix Uneasily In Legistlative Laboratory," Congressional Quarterly Weekly, March 20, 2004, page 680.
[edit] External links
- Beware 'Sound Science.' It's Doublespeak for Trouble, a Washington Post article on "sound science" under George W. Bush.
- Doubt is Their Product, a Scientific American article, June 2005, p.96-101.
- The Usual Suspects: Industry Hacks Turn Fear on its Head, PR Watch, 3rd Quarter, 2000.
- What Constitutes Sound Science?, long article (PDF)
- The 'Bad Science' Fiction, long article from the Duke Law Journal
- Risk Assessment and 'Sound' Science, long article focusing on U.S.-E.U. relationships.
- Sourcewatch (formerly Disinfopedia) on Sound science
- What is Sound Science? What is Junk Science? by the The Center for Informed Decision Making (CIDM)
