[ClearCase_guy]

In the history of science, one of the great moments is when Galileo is forced to recant his view that the Earth goes around the sun. He does what he has to do, but immediately mutters, "But it does move." This is generally seen as a statement of integrity.

Watson pulled a Don Imus, in my opinion. He said what he said. He believes what he believes. But his quick willingness to shift his stance, to grovel and to apologize are what doomed him. Had he taken a scientific stand and said to his critics, "Prove that I am wrong", then I might have more respect for him.

It helps to be right, and I don't say that Watson was right. But it's also crucial for scientists to speak the truth as they see it. What that means, is that sometimes they are wrong. Watson wasn't willing to go there.

Unlike Galileo, he too quickly stepped up and said, "My conclusions are unpopular? OK, I'll shift my views."

This is what science has come to. Politics is the driving force now. Sad.

[Old North State]

Another victory for the new Inquisition.

[Froufrou]

Had he instead chosen to fall back on the relentless AIDS situation he may have had a leg to stand on, IMHO.

OTOH, the refusal to do what is necessary to control it isn’t really stupidity, I guess...