Today, I am thankful for those truth-tellers who candidly share the facts, even when it is unpopular.
As a scientist, I revel in collecting scientifically valid evidence to support my conclusions. As a manger, I yearn for my colleagues to share their perspectives with supportive data in an authentic manner. Finally, as a concerned citizen, I mandate that my politicians and journalists also candidly provide evidence to support their views.
Sadly, these days, we live in a ‘post-factual’ world where evidence is routinely disregarded, the truth is easily stretched, and lying is not feared.
In such trying times, we must learn from history. We should never forget the great scientists who were chastised for speaking the truth. For instance, we should remember the Italian astronomer Galileo, who on this day (Jan 7) in 1610 discovered that 3 moons revolved around the planet Jupiter. He would eventually publish this finding and other evidence supporting the Copernican theory that the Earth revolves around the Sun. Instead of being lauded for his findings, he was placed under house arrest for his heliocentric beliefs. Basically, he was persecuted for sharing the facts.
So too were Socrates, Rhazes, Michael Servetus, and many others.
Let’s never forget that speaking the truth takes courage.
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