Ep 133: Senator Bob Brown on Science Policy for the 2010 Australian Election

In the tradition of UK newspapers, this blog/podcast has decided to throw its (rather small) weight behind a political party at each Australian federal election. And this time around, the decision is easy.

The 2010 Australian federal election is the most vision-less election in which I have had the privilege of voting. Without going too much into my own political leanings, what sways me in a federal election are a party's social policies. Economists study for years to develop economic policy and so I don't have a particular viewpoint on whether free-market economics are better than highly regulated systems (although the recent financial crisis would suggest that you do need regulation). In any case, both major parties in Australia pretty much swap economic policies, each accusing the other of taxing too much at one time or spending too much at another - there isn't much difference between them.

But what does influence my vote is progressive social policy. And the only party with that in this election is The Greens. They are the only party that may actually move us forward (to coin a popular phrase...)

For the purposes of this here science blog, let's quickly compare the attitudes of the major parties towards science. The Greens are the only party to have a dedicated page on science policy - I recommend you have a look. The word science does not actually appear in the Liberal Party election policies. Not surprising for a party whose leader pronounced climate change as crap, and dumped their former leader who wanted to act on it. The Labor policy page has a number of good initiatives regarding alternative and renewable energy sources, however their plan for a citizens' council to establish climate change policy is one of the more bizarre political stunts I've ever seen. Is not parliament a citizens' council for making decisions based on evidence for the community? Shouldn't we be trusting the opinions of scientists who work in the area of climate change? I know when I'm sick I go to a doctor to diagnose me, I don't go to a plumber (or a politician for that matter). And lastly, the Christian Democrat policy on the environment is sadly scientifically misinformed.

Tonight I attended a Greens function at which Greens Leader Senator Bob Brown spoke, and I was lucky enough to grab him for a few minutes to ask him about the science issues that may play a role in the upcoming election. In my opinion, Senator Brown is the most principled man in Australian politics.

Listen in to this show here (or press play below):