Science Left Behind

Science Left Behind examines anti-scientific views and positions commonly found on the political left. Authors Berezow and Campbell analyze various progressive movements and policies that contradict established scientific evidence. The book investigates topics including organic farming, vaccination skepticism, nuclear power opposition, and genetic modification fears. Through case studies and research, it challenges the notion that science denial exists primarily on the political right. The authors document specific examples of progressive science denial across multiple domains, from environmental policy to medicine. They trace how certain anti-scientific beliefs became embedded within left-wing ideology and movements. At its core, this is an exploration of how ideology can override scientific evidence regardless of political affiliation. The work aims to promote evidence-based policy discussions that transcend partisan boundaries.

Readers note the book challenges assumptions about anti-science bias being solely a right-wing phenomenon. Many appreciate the presentation of examples where progressive policies conflict with scientific evidence, particularly on topics like nuclear power and GMOs. Liked: - Clear examples of science denial across political spectrum - Research citations and data backing claims - Balanced criticism of both conservative and liberal anti-science positions Disliked: - Some readers felt the authors focused too heavily on left-wing examples while downplaying right-wing science denial - Writing style described as "smug" by multiple reviewers - Several noted factual errors in specific examples Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (198 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (117 reviews) "The authors make valid points about progressive science denial but seem to have an axe to grind," notes one Goodreads reviewer. Another Amazon reviewer states "Important message about blind spots in progressive thinking, but the condescending tone undermines the argument."

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🔬 Despite its criticism of left-wing anti-science positions, author Alex Berezow identifies as a political independent rather than a conservative, and has also written extensively about right-wing science denial. 🌍 The book introduces the term "Feel-Good Fallacy" to describe when people embrace certain positions primarily because they sound compassionate or environmentally friendly, rather than being based on scientific evidence. 📚 Co-author Hank Campbell founded the website Science 2.0, which became one of the largest independent science communications sites with over 15 million readers annually. 🧪 The book challenges several popular progressive stances, including complete opposition to nuclear power and genetic modification, showing how these positions often contradict scientific consensus. 🎓 Alex Berezow holds a Ph.D. in microbiology from the University of Washington and has served as a founding editor of RealClearScience, making him well-positioned to analyze scientific accuracy in public policy.