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Science and Democracy

We need independent government science and a strong democracy. But today both face grave threats.

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We need independent government science and a strong democracy. But today both face grave threats.

What we're facing

Every day, our government officials make decisions that affect our lives. Sometimes, these decisions help to make our communities safer, healthier, and more resilient.

But, unfortunately, powerful forces too often work to undermine the public interest. Those seeking to profit or maintain political power often attack both science and our democracy with false claims, fearmongering, and disinformation. These attacks pose an increasingly dangerous threat, and communities of color and people living in poverty often suffer disproportionately as a result.

Building a more just society

When it comes to making sure that government decisions serve the public interest, science and democracy are indispensable partners. To be effective, our government’s decisions must be grounded in the best available science. To be just and equitable, these decisions must be free from political interference and everyone in the community must have a voice in their making.

That’s why the Center for Science and Democracy works for both robust, independent public science and a strong, transparent democracy, as indispensable building blocks to a more just society.

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Science & Democracy

Save Science, Save Lives

Clean air and water. Safe food and medicine. Protection from extreme weather and the impacts of climate change. Every day federal scientists do the essential work that keeps us healthy and safe.

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