Abstract
Reflecting broader societal trends, a lack of civility has crept its way into scientific discourse. It has become routine for scientists who disagree with each other to make disparaging accusations, most commonly that they are "shills" or are being paid off by an interest group. Instead, we should keep four things in mind: (1) Most scientists who disagree with you are well-intentioned; (2) There could be a failure to communicate; (3) "Hanlon's Razor" - which asserts that we should "never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity" - is probably true; and (4) Like all humans, scientists have pride and do not like to be proven wrong. Most disagreements result from some combination of these. Only rarely should we consider that a disagreement is the result of something more nefarious, like corruption. IMPACT: Reflecting broader societal trends, a lack of civility has crept its way into scientific discourse. We must reverse this. The scientific community can lead the way toward a more civil society.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
