The Technocrats Are Falling as Their Ideology Fails

 The parallels between past and present instances where science has been manipulated for ideological purposes. It draws comparisons between the Soviet-era Lysenkoism and contemporary issues in climate science and public health, particularly in light of political changes in the U. S. with the re-election of Donald Trump.

1. Lysenkoism and its Historical Context:

• Lysenkoism was a controversial agricultural approach in the Soviet Union that rejected Mendelian genetics in favor of theories aligned with Marxist ideology, leading to disastrous consequences such as famines.

• Richard Dawkins highlights how science was subordinated to politics in that era, suggesting today’s issues reflect a similar trend.

2. Current Ideological Capture of Science:

• Over the last two decades, various scientific fields, especially climate science and COVID-19 response strategies, have reportedly veered towards ideological agendas.

• Institutions like the UN and NIH have been criticized for prioritizing consensus over rigorous scientific inquiry and marginalizing dissenters.

3. Consequences of Ideologically Driven Policies:

• The pursuit of 'Net Zero' carbon emissions is cited as a policy that has driven up energy costs and led to energy poverty, particularly in developing nations.

• During the COVID-19 pandemic, lockdowns reportedly caused significant economic harm, particularly to vulnerable populations.

4. Trump's Executive Order on Science:

• Trump's administration issued an executive order to restore what is termed “Gold Standard Science,” aiming for transparency and the protection of dissenting views in scientific research.

• This order reflects a push to break free from political influence in scientific matters.

5. Criticism of Climate Models:

• Reports claim that some climate models used for policymaking, such as the IPCC’s RCP8. 5 scenario, are deemed implausible but continue to justify restrictive energy policies.

6. Public Health and COVID Response:

• Key figures in health policy were accused of suppressing dissent, leading to prolonged lockdowns that negatively impacted children and the economy.

• Critics believe the responses were more ideology-driven than evidence-based, with significant long-term repercussions.

7. Emerging Optimism in Scientific Inquiry:

• Trump’s return to power is viewed as a potential turning point, sparking discussions on restoring scientific integrity and honest inquiry.

• There is a rising movement among scientists and journalists to challenge established narratives, hinting at a shift away from the previous ideological dogma.

8. Global Political Trends:

• The commentary remarks on recent political shifts across various countries toward more populist leadership, challenging broader globalist narratives.

• These changes are viewed as part of a growing desire for transparency and accountability in leadership.

9. The Warning of History:

• The text emphasizes the dangers of allowing ideology to dominate scientific discourse, invoking Lysenkoism as a cautionary tale for the present.

• When science is subservient to ideology, it leads to harmful policies and societal upheaval.

The piece argues that, in light of current political and scientific challenges, a renewed focus on genuine scientific integrity and an end to ideological control could lead to positive changes. It underscores the importance of preserving open discourse in science to prevent repeating the mistakes of history. The momentum towards truth and accountability, driven by recent political developments, is seen as crucial for future progress. 

https://wattsupwiththat.com/2025/10/13/the-technocrats-are-falling-as-their-ideology-fails/