On February 13, The Foley Institute welcomed three professors to discuss the disparity in understanding between scientists, lawmakers and the public, leading many to reject scientifically sound ideas.

Kristen Intemann, a philosophy professor at Montana State University, said people have a tendency to believe what they want and seek information to confirm it. Intemann said another example was that despite virtually no evidence of a connection between vaccines and autism, there seems to be a persistent fear that some link exists. An increasing number of parents are disregarding the advice of pediatricians and choosing not to vaccinate their children, she said, bringing back some sicknesses in concerning numbers.

Patricia Hunt, a professor in WSU’s School of Molecular Biosciences, said the U.S. is falling behind other countries because of the way it has invested in science compared to others. She said she thinks the U.S. is giving up its place as a scientific leader. She added that lawmakers do not always lead the public in the right direction when it comes to understanding science.

Steven Stehr, a WSU political science professor, said lawmakers and opinion leaders attack science on certain issues to defend their worldview. He specifically pointed to Portland voters opposing putting fluoride in their water supply.