The language of science and communication with Congress

Abstract

"There are in fact two things, science and opinion; the former begets knowledge, the latter, ignorance." So stated Hippocrates back in 400 C.E. Today we find ourselves in a tug of war between science and opinion as we try to fashion a path forward on many important societal issues, including the use of science in addressing the water, energy, and climate change issues that are growing in importance. Our job in Congress is making sure we use the knowledge gained from asking questions and apply the responses properly in the decision-and policy-making processes. While that all sounds good in theory, the application is at best cumbersome, often leaving us with more questions than answers.