Trust in Science Eroded by Corporate Greed, Says Expert

In a recent commentary, Mike Shouldice, former president of Nunavut Arctic College, expressed deep concerns about the increasing influence of corporate greed on scientific integrity. His remarks followed the viewing of the documentary “Into The Weeds,” which investigates allegations that research on the herbicide Roundup, produced by Monsanto, was manipulated to minimize its health risks.

Shouldice described the documentary as an eye-opener, revealing a troubling lack of honesty within the scientific community. “It’s all about money,” he stated, emphasizing the pervasive distrust that many now feel towards medicine, health, and vaccinations. This skepticism, he believes, is particularly pronounced among younger generations, who feel alienated by a system that seems to disregard their concerns.

He noted, “They’re suspicious and doubtful of everything and everybody.” Reflecting on his own upbringing in the 1950s and 1960s, Shouldice contrasted the respect his generation had for scientific research and health practices with the current climate of doubt. He recalled how his generation dealt with misinformation regarding smoking and its health impacts, suggesting that today’s youth need to employ critical thinking skills to navigate a complex information landscape.

Shouldice, also an ordained minister, pointed to financial greed as a root cause of many societal issues. He expressed disappointment not only in corporate practices but also in instances of betrayal within trusted institutions, such as the church. “This is supposedly a trusted community healing leader, and they’re just not,” he lamented. This kind of disillusionment, he argued, creates a broader atmosphere of distrust that affects various sectors, including healthcare and corporate governance.

The former educator remarked on the current state of the world, suggesting it is dominated by a handful of powerful individuals and corporations. He criticized the prioritization of profit over human welfare, stating, “We’re doing everything for a buck and we don’t really care about our fellow man.”

Shouldice drew a parallel between past consumer perceptions and today’s marketing strategies, noting how products like Kellogg’s Corn Flakes were once trusted as healthy choices but now seem more focused on profit than genuine health benefits. “It’s just sad,” he concluded, highlighting the urgent need for accountability in both corporate and scientific realms.

As society grapples with these challenges, Shouldice’s insights underscore the importance of fostering trust and integrity in institutions that play vital roles in public health and safety. The call for a vigilant watchdog over corporate practices is echoed by many who share his concerns about the future of scientific research and its implications for society.