We start to mistrust academic scientists more than we used to because the scientist might have some financial interest, said Petit. Chui said journalists use their own form of peer review calling other experts in the field to verify the validity of a researcher s claims. Helping science journalists explain research to the general public is just one avenue for the civic scientist. Another is to serve as a scientific adviser to a school board, a strategy that has been successfully used by evolutionists. Another option is responding to a local or national crisis in a question and answer session on the Internet.
Nobody has to do everything.
Just do something, said Greenwood. Scientists who ignore their civic role do so at their peril, said Greenwood. Federal agencies increasingly require outreach efforts. Also, a drop in federal funding and the high cost of equipment and personnel has forced institutions to seek donations from private individuals and foundations. The portrayal of scientists as involved citizens can directly enhance fundraising efforts.