PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Contact: Nathan Bupp
Phone: (716) 636-4869 x 218
E-mail: nbupp@centerforinquiry.net
Indian Scientists Embrace Biotechnology and Ayurvedic Medicine Simultaneously, New Study Finds
May 23, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Austin Dacey, Ph.D.
Representative to the United Nations
Center for Inquiry
+1 (212) 504-2937
First-of-its-kind national survey of over 1,000 professional scientists
reveals a diverse picture of belief and opinion amid dramatic cultural richness
New York, NY (May 23, 2008) -- A major new survey of Indian scientists' opinions and attitudes regarding religion, ethics, and society will be released at United Nations Plaza on June 5, 2008, where lead researchers will present a summary report of key results.
Among other intriguing findings, the study shows that only 8 percent of Indian scientists express ethical reservations about genetic engineering and stem cell research. Concurrently, 90 percent somewhat or strongly agree with the teaching of university degree courses in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient system of health care native to the subcontinent.
The groundbreaking sociological study is the first in a series, Worldviews and Opinions of Scientists, which aims to explore the worldviews and opinions of science professionals in various non-Western societies. This international academic research project is conducted by the Institute for the Study of Secularism in Society and Culture at Trinity College (ISSSC), in Hartford, Connecticut under the direction of Professors Barry Kosmin and Ariela Keysar.
Prof. Keysar noted that “Secularism has a unique meaning in India. A vast majority of scientists perceive secularism as tolerance for various religions and philosophies and this is reflected in their approach to scientific issues.”
Other survey questions cover topics such as Reasons for Becoming a Scientist, Status of Women, Scientific Literacy in India, Opinions Regarding Evolution, Ethical Constraints on Science, Belief in God, Belief in Miracles, and Spirituality.
The ISSSC study survey of 1,100 Indian scientists was designed in consultation with Dr. Meera Nanda, author of Prophets Facing Backwards, and conducted in cooperation with the Center for Inquiry-India, for which the distinguished scientist Dr. P.M. Bhargava serves as a chief adviser.
Prof. Kosmin explained that “India was chosen because of its increasing scientific importance on the global scene and its special constitutional commitment to ‘develop scientific temper’.”
A summary report of the survey will be released at a press conference and seminar on June 5, 2008 at 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (lunch will be served) at 777 United Nations Plaza, 44th St. & 1st Ave., 2nd Floor.
The Worldviews and Opinions of Scientists series is conducted in cooperation with the Center for Inquiry, a non-governmental organization in special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. The Center is an international educational network concerned with the scientific outlook and its intersection with public policy and development. Online at www.centerforinquiry.net .
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