Citizens Quote by David Lilienthal
“It is chiefly upon the lay citizen, informed about science but not its practitioner, that the country must depend in determining the use to which science is put, in resolving the many public policy questions that scientific discoveries constantly force upon us.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on Science Policy, 1965
The public, educated but not expert, must guide how science is applied and shape policy decisions.
In simple terms: Citizens must decide science’s role in society.
Key Takeaway
Engage informed citizens in policy.
Themes
democracy
science policy
public engagement
Mood
concerned
thoughtful
Type
political
informative
When to use this quote
- voting
- public forums
- science education
- policy debates
Key Concepts
ethics
technology
government
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we improve scientific literacy?
- What mechanisms ensure expert input?
A Different Perspective
Complex issues may outpace public understanding.
