I enjoyed reading the articles on "welcoming corrections,"and the Duesberg controversy (The Scientist, July 25). Historically, science and what, at the time, represents mainstream thought has been consistently shown to be less than accurate by future researchers. In condemning "renegade" scientists, we join the ranks of those who backed the "obvious" theories of the earth being flat, matter never being created or destroyed, bleeding being a healthy treatment, and the superiority of certain races over the others.
If we object to someone's theory, let it be on scientific, not personal grounds. We must encourage debate and added research in all areas where there is doubt. This is the scientific method. The dangers of "Group Think" and the arrogance of thinking we "know the subject" hurts science, scientists, and humanity.
I have two little reminders of this message in my office. One is a picture of Galen's Barbary Ape hand, drawn ...
