8Society’s say: discern the relationships between science and policy

At a zoo, visitors may witness a great beast pacing behind the bars of its cage. They may observe and admire the creature, its exquisite bone structure, magnificent coat, and the fiery determination of its expression. Perhaps the zookeepers have installed a sign describing the creature’s physiology and a unique anatomical adaptation it has. Passersby may read the information with fascination, but no matter how long they spend in front of that cage, they will never truly understand the beast. True understanding can only come from seeing the creature in its natural surroundings, knowing where it fits in the web of life, what features of the physical environment are crucial ...

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