Science is an incredible tool used to better understand reality. It’s strength is that it can (at least partially) circumvent the many “cognitive blind spots” that evolution has built into the human mind. <br><br>But science (the tool) is distinct from the people who engage in it.  Scientists are human, and scientific thought is not truly “natural” to humans. If that were so, then the Scientific Method would have existed since the Dawn of Humanity (as opposed to having been invented over the past 400-500 years). <br><br>Scientists use the scientific method in order to “see around the corners” that limit human thought and perception…to see what IS and what’s POSSIBLE. And they should be respected for what they do. <br><br>However, like ANY other human, scientists have human minds…which (if they’re not careful) leaves them prone to both blind self-interest and erroneous conclusions not based on any actual science.  “Junk thinking” can entirely negate the power of the Scientific Method and can easily contaminate science if scientists don’t carefully guard against its intrusion.<br><br>Scientists must challenge themselves to ask questions and follow the data, wherever it leads, regardless of their own assumptions or feelings about what must or must not be true. <br><br>Value those who question conclusions and demand they be put to the test. Because that sort of questioning and probing  is the ONLY way scientific knowledge has ever advanced! To stifle scientific thought/discussion is the exact antithesis of the Scientific Method. It should NEVER be a question of “trust the science” or “trust the expert” or “go along so as not to make waves”.  <br><br>Scientists, above all others, should  remember that uncritical belief and the blind following of authority are utterly destructive to genuine science. They should be mindful of their professional responsibility to demand access to data and then impartially evaluate it…to ask difficult questions, especially when powerful people and powerful interests are in play!