Behave Quote by Hans von Storch
“Unfortunately, some scientists behave like preachers, delivering sermons to people. What this approach ignores is the fact that there are many threats in our world that must be weighed against one another. If I'm driving my car and find myself speeding toward an obstacle, I can't simple yank the wheel to the side without first checking to see if I'll instead be driving straight into a crowd of people. Climate researchers cannot and should not take this process of weighing different factors out of the hands of politics and society.”
About This Quote
Scientists sometimes preach like religious leaders, ignoring the need to weigh multiple threats; policy decisions must balance risks rather than follow single‑issue narratives.
In simple terms: Science must consider many risks, not just one.
Key Takeaway
Balance competing threats in decision‑making.
Themes
risk assessment
science communication
policy
complexity
Mood
analytical
concerned
Type
explanatory
critical
When to use this quote
- environmental regulation
- public health
- emergency planning
Key Concepts
systems thinking
ethical responsibility
multivariable analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure balanced risk evaluation?
- What safeguards prevent single‑issue dominance?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on one risk can skew policy.
