Science and Censorship

The Knowledge Project: Censorship and Science examines the clash between First Amendment principles of free expression and government suppression or distortion of scientific information. By disrupting the free flow of information in the scientific arena, the government has endangered the "marketplace of ideas," threatening not only our constitutional rights to freedom of speech, thought and inquiry, but also the decision and policy-making processes that depend on reliable and valid information.

As national concern over the "politicization" of science escalates, this program provides a framework for understanding this problem as more than just politics. The Knowledge Project identifies specific governmental policies and practices that inhibit the free exchange of ideas, explores the policy implications of these activities, and develops analyses and arguments about how the First Amendment applies to those actions that suppress and/or distort research findings. By incorporating constitutional law and principles into the national discourse, NCAC endeavors to broaden the discussion so that these acts are properly weighed against the First Amendment rights of the scientific community and of the general public as well.

In pursuit of these aims, the Knowledge Project:
» Frequently publishes reports and op-ed articles;
» Participates in public events , Congressional briefings, and conferences of national scientific organizations;
» Is a member of the Integrity in Science Working Group, an online network which connects over fifty organizations and individuals concerned about these issues;
» Informs and stimulates the press, gaining media visibility for these issues.

For resources and reports of censorship incidents, visit the Science archive.

To report an incident, or to lend your support, contact NCAC.