Trust in science: Let’s leave politics out of it

Science plays a massive and multifaceted role in the world today. It is woven into pretty much every aspect of our lives, whether we notice it or not.

Every new gadget or digital tool you are using exists because of advances in physics, chemistry and computer science. Science is behind the development of vaccines, medical technology and treatments.

Science drives agriculture and food security. It is like the ultimate superpower — curiosity mixed with logic and some creativity.

While not all farmers and ranchers have lab coats or Ph.D.‘s, they not only benefit from science every day, but they are often scientists in practice, blending tradition with experimentation and scientific knowledge to feed the world.

Who needs Batman, Captain America, Aquaman or Wonder Woman when we have farmers? We have Soil Sentinel, The Harvester, The Irrigator and Captain Cattle.

Stop for a minute and consider the agricultural technologies that we use every day on our farms.

Genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, can be engineered to grow faster, use nutrients more efficiently and increase yields. They can be designed to tolerate drought, poor soil, heat and other harsh conditions.

GMO crops that can naturally resist viruses and repel pests, allow us to cut back on the need for crop protection chemicals.

Science allows us to analyze our soils for nutrients, pH and organic matter to help optimize use of fertilizer.

Because of science we have microbial inoculants, so we can use beneficial bacteria or fungi to promote plant growth and nutrient update.

Because of science, we can use selective breeding in livestock for traits like milk production, soundness and meat quality.

We use artificial insemination and embryo transfer to improve genetics within our herd more quickly. Veterinary science provides vaccines and disease management in our herds and flocks.

We have precision technologies today that allow us to place the right inputs in exactly the right amount and the right time in exactly the right place. This saves us time and resources while improving yields.

Yay for science — that is, unless it is being weaponized, as too often it is, on the political stage.

Science itself is not partisan. It is based on data, evidence, testing and peer review. It does not take sides.

However, to gain public trust, some lawmakers or protesters or lobbying organizations will invoke “science” to lend credibility to policies or opinions when said science is selectively chosen or misrepresented.

To advance agendas, some lawmakers or protesters or lobbying organizations will cherry-pick their science, presenting only the findings that support a political goal or favorable result for the few, not the many.

People’s views on science-related issues can align with their political identity, especially when science challenges economic interests or cultural beliefs. What research gets funded often depends on the political leanings of those holding the purse strings.

I challenge you to consider science based on evidence, not political ideology. View research through an unbiased, fact-driven lens.

That is what my agricultural superheroes would do.