Commentary: The true cost of abandoning science
arcamax.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 8:59:29 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Presidential Campaigns
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Any trip to the dark night skies of our Southern California deserts reveals a vista full of wonder and mystery -- riddles that astrophysicists like myself spend our days unraveling.
I am fortunate to study how the first galaxies formed and evolved over the vast span of 13 billion years into the beautiful structures that fill those skies. NASA's crown jewel, the James Webb Space Telescope, has delivered measurements of early galaxies so puzzling that, more than three years after its launch, we are still struggling to understand them.
My work on ancient galaxies may seem to have no relevance to the enormous challenges that confront our nation every day. But if we look back over the last 80 years, ever since World War II turned America into the epicenter of global science, curiosity-driven investigation -- in astronomy, quantum materials, evolutionary biology and more -- has been a pillar of American progress.
But science in America is now under dire threat. President Donald Trump's administration is laying waste to both national laboratories and federal support for academic science.
Scientific staff is being sharply reduced from the National Park Service to the National Science Foundation and everywhere in between. Looking at the president's science funding proposals across many agencies, the 2026 fiscal year budget calls for a 34% cut to basic research. The plan slashes NASA's budget to the lowest amount since human space flight began more than 60 years ago, canceling or defunding dozens and dozens of NASA missions. Already, the NSF has halved support for the most promising American graduate students.
Scientists are speaking up against this destruction, of course. There are strong practical reasons to back science: It is a powerful engine for economic growth, and it is essential for understanding and mitigating the dangers of the natural world -- whether they be the Los Angeles wildfires (which my family fled in January) or the tragic floods in Texas last month.
As important as these pragmatic arguments are, their focus on quantifiable, short-term benefits undervalues the true worth of the scientific enterprise. Occasionally, curiosity-driven inquiry -- basic science -- rapidly enables new technology, but more often its first impact is the wonder we experience at novel measurements, whether contemplating ripples in space-time generated by colliding black holes, underwater ecosystems that draw energy from geothermal vents rather than the sun, or the relic microwave radiation of the Big Bang.
The practical impacts that follow are unpredictable; if the goal is to explore the unknown, then the benefits are also unknown. (Let us not forget that even Columbus was sorely mistaken about what his journey would uncover!) Only through hard work to understand and unpack new discoveries do their full benefits become clear, and that can take decades, as with how Einstein's theory of relativity (published from 1905 to 1915) eventually enabled GPS technology.
Government support is essential in this process. Although Hollywood often portrays scientific discovery as the work of lone geniuses, far more often it is an incremental process, inching ahead through insights from disparate research groups leveraging cutting-edge infrastructure (such as Arctic research facilities and orbiting telescopes), which can only be built through the focused resources of government investment. Every American taxpayer has helped enable innumerable scientific advancements because they are largely due to our nation's investments in the public goods of people and facilities.
Of course, these advances have cost money, and we must always ask how best to balance the long-term benefits of science against our country's other urgent needs. (The enormously popular James Webb Space Telescope, for example, was massively over budget, which led to budget-estimation reforms at NASA.) In 2024, the total science budget, outside of medical research (and its obvious practical benefits), was about $28 billion.
This is a large number, but it is still just over one-half of 1% of all spending outside of Social Security and Medicare: For every $1,000 in spending, about $6 -- one tall Starbucks Caffè Mocha or Big Mac in California -- supports fundamental scientific inquiry.
Yet the current administration has chosen to hack away at budgets rather than do the hard work of self-examination and improvement. American science, and especially the emerging generation of young scientists, will not survive these cuts. If implemented, the administration's framework will choke off new technologies before they are only half an idea, leave fundamental questions about the universe unanswered and chase a generation of scientists to other countries.
By any measure, American science is the envy of the world, and we now face a choice: to remain at the vanguard of scientific inquiry through sound investment, or to cede our leadership and watch others answer the big questions that have confounded humanity for millennia -- and reap the rewards and prestige. Only one of those options will make the future America great.
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Steven R. Furlanetto is a professor of physics and astronomy at UCLA.
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Sign Our PetitionThe news article emphasizes the critical state of scientific funding and support in the United States, particularly highlighting the detrimental impact of budget cuts proposed during the Trump administration. This analysis is not merely about numbers and dollars; it reflects a deeper concern about the trajectory of American society in the context of historical reverence for science and its role in societal advancement. The article points out that science has historically been a cornerstone of American progress since World War II, a period that catalyzed substantial governmental investment in scientific research and innovation. This historical context is essential to understanding the current crisis: the abandonment of science is not just a contemporary issue; it is a regression to pre-scientific eras where knowledge was not prioritized for public good.
The proposed 34% cut to basic research funding and the reduction of resources for pivotal institutions like NASA and the National Science Foundation (NSF) illustrate a broader ideological stance that discounts long-term investments for immediate gains. Such cuts threaten to dismantle decades of progress in various scientific fields, including astronomy, biology, and environmental science, which are essential for addressing contemporary challenges—from climate change to public health crises. Furthermore, the defunding of scientific research can be viewed in light of historical anti-intellectualism that has occasionally surfaced in American politics, where skepticism toward expert opinion undermines informed decision-making. This trend is particularly concerning as it not only stifles innovation but also has serious implications for national security, public health, and environmental sustainability.
The article also touches upon the practical reasons for supporting scientific research, such as economic growth and disaster mitigation—arguments that resonate widely across the political spectrum. However, the piece advocates for a broader appreciation of science that transcends mere economic calculations. By framing science as a "powerful engine for economic growth," it risks reducing the intricate tapestry of human knowledge and curiosity to a set of opportunistic metrics. The true worth of scientific inquiry lies in its ability to inspire wonder, foster critical thinking, and serve as a tool for social justice. Historically, scientific advancements have not only improved living standards but have also played pivotal roles in movements for equity and justice, from public health campaigns to environmental justice initiatives.
Moreover, the erosion of support for science has profound implications for social struggles today. As climate change continues to wreak havoc on vulnerable communities, the need for robust scientific research is more pressing than ever. The interplay between science and social justice is evident in the fight against environmental racism, where marginalized communities disproportionately bear the brunt of ecological disasters. Cutting funding for research and data collection in these areas not only undermines effective policy-making but also perpetuates systemic inequalities. The scientific community must advocate for inclusivity and equity, ensuring that the benefits of research extend to all segments of society, particularly those historically underserved.
In conclusion, the abandonment of scientific support is not merely an economic or political issue; it is a moral imperative that challenges the very fabric of democratic society. The historical context of America's scientific achievements, combined with the urgent need for equity and justice in contemporary struggles, underscores the importance of defending scientific inquiry and funding. As advocates for social justice and equity, it is vital to frame the conversation around science not just in terms of economic benefits, but as a fundamental component of a just and equitable society. The fight for science funding is, ultimately, a fight for the future of our shared humanity, and it is essential that we engage in this struggle with urgency and purpose.
In the current climate of political discourse, the abandonment of scientific rigor and inquiry poses a significant risk to the future of American innovation and public welfare. The article highlights a troubling trend: under the previous administration, funding for scientific research was slashed, undermining decades of progress that had positioned the United States as a leader in various scientific fields. This assault on science is not merely a fiscal issue; it is a philosophical one, reflecting a broader hostility toward evidence-based decision-making that has permeated political rhetoric and policy. To understand the gravity of this situation, we must delve into both the historical context of American scientific achievement and the implications of neglecting this critical domain.
Historically, the post-World War II era saw a surge in governmental investment in science and technology. This period birthed monumental advances in various fields, from aerospace engineering to medicine, positioning the U.S. as a global powerhouse of innovation. Funding from agencies like NASA and the National Science Foundation (NSF) has not only driven economic growth but has also fostered public trust in scientific institutions. The dismantling of such funding marks a regression, aligning with a populist agenda that often prioritizes short-term gains over long-term benefits. This shift is reminiscent of earlier anti-intellectual movements that sought to disregard empirical evidence in favor of dogma or ideology. By recognizing this historical pattern, we can better articulate the stakes involved when advocating for robust scientific support.
What can we, as engaged citizens, do to combat this trend? First and foremost, we must advocate for policies that prioritize scientific funding and education at every level of government. This involves not only supporting candidates who prioritize science but also participating in grassroots movements that demand accountability and transparency from our elected officials. Engaging with local and national representatives to express our concerns can have a profound impact. Moreover, utilizing social media platforms to amplify the voices of scientists and educators can help shift public perception and highlight the importance of scientific inquiry in addressing contemporary issues such as climate change, public health crises, and technological advancement.
Additionally, fostering a culture of science appreciation in our communities is essential. This includes advocating for STEM education in schools and supporting public initiatives that promote science literacy among the general populace. By organizing community events, workshops, and discussions around scientific topics, we can cultivate an environment where empirical evidence is valued and respected. This grassroots effort should extend to encouraging young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to tackle the challenges ahead.
Finally, we must confront the rhetoric that seeks to undermine scientific authority. It is crucial to engage in constructive conversations with those who may be skeptical of scientific consensus, particularly in areas like climate change or public health. By emphasizing the pragmatic benefits of scientific research—such as improved public health outcomes, economic growth, and technological innovation—we can bridge the gap between differing viewpoints. This requires patience and empathy, understanding that skepticism often arises from misinformation or a lack of access to scientific education. When we engage with these individuals, we create opportunities for dialogue rather than division, potentially swaying opinions and fostering a more science-friendly environment.
In conclusion, the battle to protect and promote science in America is not just an issue for scientists and policymakers; it is a matter that affects us all. The steps we take now—advocating for funding, fostering appreciation for science, and engaging in meaningful dialogue—will determine the trajectory of our society in the years to come. By uniting to defend the value of scientific inquiry, we reinforce the foundations of progress and ensure that future generations can build upon the legacy of innovation that has long defined our nation. Let us rise to the challenge, for the true cost of abandoning science is far greater than we can afford.
In light of the challenges highlighted in the article regarding the threats to scientific research and funding, there are several concrete actions that individuals can take to advocate for science and its vital role in society. Here’s a detailed list of ideas and actions that can be pursued:
### Personal Actions to Support Science
1. **Educate Yourself and Others** - Stay informed about current scientific issues and funding cuts. Share this information through social media, community groups, or personal conversations. - Host or participate in local forums or discussions about the importance of scientific research in your community.
2. **Engage with Local and National Representatives** - Write letters or emails to your congressional representatives expressing concern over science funding cuts. - Encourage friends and family to do the same. - **Example Contact**: - **Senator Elizabeth Warren** (Massachusetts) - Email: senator_warren@warren.senate.gov - Mailing Address: 2400 JFK Federal Building, 15 New Sudbury St, Boston, MA 02203 - **Senator Chuck Schumer** (New York) - Email: schumer.senate.gov/contact/email-chuck - Mailing Address: 780 Third Avenue, Suite 2301, New York, NY 10017
3. **Support Scientific Organizations and Initiatives** - Join organizations such as the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) or the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) that advocate for science funding and education. - Volunteer for local science fairs or educational programs to promote science literacy.
4. **Sign Petitions** - Look for petitions advocating for increased funding for scientific research. Websites like Change.org or MoveOn.org often have active petitions. - Example petition: "Protect Science and Research Funding" on Change.org. - Share these petitions on social media to gather more support.
5. **Participate in Science Advocacy Events** - Attend events like "March for Science" or other local science advocacy rallies. These events raise awareness and demonstrate public support for scientific research. - Organize or participate in community science fairs or open labs to engage the public with the scientific community.
6. **Contact Local Educational Institutions** - Reach out to local schools and universities to advocate for science programs and funding. You can offer support or resources to enhance science education. - **Example Contact**: - Contact your local university’s Office of Research or Administration and express your concern about funding cuts.
7. **Use Social Media Effectively** - Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to raise awareness about the importance of science funding. Share articles, infographics, and personal stories related to science. - Tag relevant political figures and organizations to amplify your message.
8. **Engage in Public Commentary** - Write op-eds or letters to the editor for your local newspaper advocating for science funding. Share personal stories about how science has impacted your life or community. - **Example Publication**: The New York Times, local community newspapers.
### What to Say
When reaching out to representatives, participating in petitions, or writing to news outlets, consider using the following points:
- **Importance of Science**: Emphasize how science drives innovation, economic growth, and public safety. - **Consequences of Cuts**: Discuss the potential negative impacts of reduced funding on public health, environmental issues, and technological advancements.
- **Call to Action**: Encourage your representatives to restore and increase funding for scientific research. Urge them to consider the long-term benefits of investing in science for future generations.
### Conclusion
By taking these proactive steps, individuals can play a significant role in advocating for the protection and enhancement of scientific research and education. Each small action contributes to a larger movement that underscores the importance of science in addressing the challenges we face as a society.