In the national (and global) discussions of so many critical issues today, science is finding its voice. This is not simply in response to recent challenges to broadly accepted scientific research in areas such as climate change, vaccine safety, or environmental sustainability. In a much more profound way, it is all that science represents—its purpose, its process, its accomplishments, its impacts—that reaffirms the importance of decisions and actions across all segments of society that are factual and evidenced- based.
The Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) and its member institutions—science centers and science museums around the world—are committed to advancing public engagement in science and contributing to the development of a scientifically literate society. ASTC institutions subscribe to the fundamental principles and practices of science, including the free exchange of views and the free movement of individuals. ASTC institutions place particular value on meaningful exchange on societal issues, locally and globally, where understanding of, and engagement with, science are essential—and always in the spirit of tolerance, peace, and respect for cultural identities and diversity.
ASTC joins the many organizations that call for a collective voice on science. Science is the common language that can transcend all boundaries—geographic, socioeconomic, cultural, and more—for the benefit of all mankind. Science is also a dynamic process of learning that derives from multiple cultures and heritages. Debate on any particular scientific issue is certainly not new, and topical debate should never cast doubt on the fundamental processes of scientific inquiry. In fact, rigorous research can resolve uncertainties and help distinguish fact from opinion. We should defend science because we rely on the credibility, integrity, and accountability of the scientific community itself.
As an association, we must, however, also respect the diversity of views within our membership as to how to be most effective in this messaging. Some members may align directly with the voices of scientists wherever these views are being expressed. Other members may selectively engage in unique public forums that address specific relationships of science to their communities.
ASTC does not take a view on which approach is the most appropriate. We do invite our ASTC members to share their plans and activities on this website as a tool to assist us all in how to be most effective in our communities. ASTC hopes, as well, that ALL member institutions will use every opportunity to open doors and invite visitors to explore, test, discover and be inspired by the wonders and the meaning of science in their lives. There has never been a more appropriate time to help translate complex science into comprehensible, relevant form, promote meaningful exchange and debate between scientists and local populations, and build trust between the scientific establishment and the general public. This is our mission and the valuable service that we are proud to provide in communities everywhere.