I disagree with Garland Allen (The Scientist, May 14, 1990, page 17) on two fundamental points. Science, especially biological sciences, is about what might be true or could be true. Science accumulates evidence that takes us closer and closer, we hope, to the truth, but it is rare to be certain in biology that we have actually arrived. Ideally, scientists do pursue what interests them. This is academic freedom. We decry those social and financial restraints that restrict it.
Letter: More On Race And Science
I disagree with Garland Allen (The Scientist, May 14, 1990, page 17) on two fundamental points. Science, especially biological sciences, is about what might be true or could be true. Science accumulates evidence that takes us closer and closer, we hope, to the truth, but it is rare to be certain in biology that we have actually arrived. Ideally, scientists do pursue what interests them. This is academic freedom. We decry those social and financial restraints that restrict it. D.F. MAGEE School
