Science Denial in the Public Sphere

Abstract

The phenomenon of science denial is increasingly being understood as a serious threat to human health and even the long-term sustainability of civilization itself. This paper defines science denial, identifies some of its sources and manifestations, and articulates a response to the growing phenomenon in terms of the discourse-ethics articulated in the work of Habermas and Rawls. Mirroring the recognition by both thinkers of the validity of religious expression, the paper defends both the condemnation of science denial and the possibilities of limited science restrictions, outside of contexts of public health.