Holden Thorpe, the editor of the academic journal ‘Science’, has made some unusual claims in recent years. One of these claims is that anyone involved in or adjacent to the field of science, such as a journalist, policy wonk, or activist, is considered a scientist. Dr. Henry Miller from ACSH disagrees with this assertion.
On Episode 78 of the Science Dispatch podcast, Cameron English and Dr. Chuck Dinerstein discussed Holden Thorpe’s definition of a scientist. They believed that the editor-in-chief of a reputable scientific journal should have a clear understanding of what constitutes a scientist and argued that Thorpe’s definition was incorrect.
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It is crucial to have clarity on what defines a scientist, particularly when it comes from someone as highly respected as Holden Thorpe. By challenging misconceptions and promoting accurate definitions, individuals can ensure that the integrity of scientific discourse is maintained.
In conclusion, it is essential to understand who qualifies as a scientist and how this title should be used correctly. By having open discussions about these topics and clarifying any misconceptions that arise, we can ensure that scientific discourse remains unbiased and reliable for everyone involved.