Communicating Science to Policy-Makers Traditionally, scientists and policy-makers have had serious difficulties communicating effectively. This communication problem can limit policy-makers access to the science needed for the development of sound public policy. Scientists and policy-makers work in vastly different environments and their occupations have very different priorities and objectives. As a result, scientists and policy-makers tend to process information and view the world in very different ways. These diverse views create misunderstandings and cause difficulties in communicating effectively. Decisions on critical issues are often made without access to the best scientific understanding. This communication problem also serves to limit the relevancy of scientific findings and can eventually result in weakened support for science among policy-makers. Clearly it is incumbent on all scientists and policy-makers to find better ways to communicate in order to produce the best science-based public policy. |
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