Why Presidential Candidates Should Debate On Science

Unfortunately, the science-related issues such as climate change, research and development of alternative energy, biotechnology, nanotechnology, stem-cell and genetic research, space exploration, and the role of Presidential Science Adviser are not getting the *air time* that they deserve. Science Debate 2008 is attempting to change all that, and we should do our part to support this effort.

Here's an excerpt of the email I received from Science Debate 2008.

"All told, we now represent over 125 million American voters.  From the health of the economy to the health of our families to the health of the planet, Americans understand what the candidates have yet to fully grapple with: issues of science and technology are critical to our future.       

"Despite the importance of this discussion to all Americans, we haven't yet heard back from the campaigns.

"So we need your help.  This is a unique moment in American history when you can truly influence the future direction of the nation and the world by helping us elevate science and technology in our national political dialogue."

And here's a video of Lawrence Krauss, one of the potent voices in the scientific community urging the presidential candidates to debate science for the sake of our future.

See Science Debate 2008: We Built it; will They Come? for more videos.

In the meantime, I wonder if Ralph Nader's entry into the presidential race would stir the debate on science and technology. Will Nader have the same John Edwards Effect on the candidates? I hope he does.