freedom of inquiry

Wesley J. Smith spoke with Todd Wilkens on the Issues, Etc. radio program on September 8, 2026, to discuss the latest proposal in Nature to require scientists to register with the government. Smith spoke about the danger this poses to free inquiry and the scientific method. “But what you see instead now too often in science is a suppression of different opinions because many in science have confused scientific policy and ideology with the scientific method,” Smith explained. “So some in science have moved from science to scientism where it becomes a form of belief as opposed to a method.” Smith and Wilkens also discuss recent developments in assisted suicide, including the money being made from it and the way Read More ›

Nature — the most prestigious science journal in the world — has editorialized in favor of requiring scientists to register with governments as a condition of participation in the sector. Here’s the context. South Africa has legislation pending that would require scientists to register with a government body or face significant legal consequences. Nature applauds the authoritarian idea. From the editorial (my emphasis): What do engineers, environmental-health officers and health-care workers have in common? These occupations can, in some instances, be practised only by people who have registered with a relevant professional body. This typically requires candidates to pass qualifying exams and adhere to a code of practice that includes sanctions for violations. The process is intended to create the highest standards of quality, Read More ›