‘I am Kevin Folta’: Skepti-Forum directors stand with science communication

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The Skepti-Forum Board of Directors drafted a letter in support of Dr. Kevin Folta on November 5.  The letter was posted for our members to add their names. What follows is excerpts from the letter.

In this complex world we need more scientists, particularly independent scientists in academia, who have the ability and make the extra effort to bring their field of study to the general public through science communication. Biotechnology in agriculture is one of the top issues in society that desperately needs expert voices to facilitate public conversation. This week we lost a powerful, respected voice in that conversation. Dr. Kevin Folta, a prominent academic and a gifted teacher, was pressured to suspend his science communication efforts due to ongoing vicious and one-sided attacks by activists who utilized emails obtained under the Freedom Of Information Act to fabricate stories from out-of-context snippets to malign both his personal character and his professional credentials.

As the Board of Directors, Community Moderators, Administrators, and Community of Skepti-Forum, one of the largest social media communities that provides a platform for critical discussion of public science issues, we stand behind Dr. Folta. . . .

. . . .

Many of us have also experienced bullying from misguided activists and ideologues. We have seen critics go to great lengths to harass those whose facts contradict their agendas. We know that what has happened to Dr. Folta could happen to any one of us.

Our resolve is unbroken. While one voice has been silenced, we are inspired by his example and we will continue his important work.

Read full, original post: Stand with Science Communication

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