It is easy to be dazzled by science. Science is, well, cool. It is about discovery, knowledge, exploration, and the undeniable human compulsion to poke at the unknown. And, as with every cool thing in the universe–we should reject the poor and irresponsible attempts, in favor of recognizing and defending the good and the responsible. It is true for consumer products, true for laws and lawmakers, true for nonprofits, businesses, and initiatives. It is also true for science.

This is not to, er, poop on science. This is to call attention to the difference between responsible, sound science and, um, the alternative. There are numerous efforts to promote and defend responsible science, and here I call your attention to two:

First, DEFEND SCIENCE (www.defendscience.org). A letter to President Bush from over 6,000 scientists asking that scientific inquiry remain free from political, religious, ideological constraints. While policital, religious, and ideological views are important pieces of the human experience, they should not dictate, strangle or direct scientific inquiry.

Second, a more personal project, SUPPORT RESPONSIBLE SCIENCE in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. This pristine, remote, and highly protected archipelago is one of the last predator-dominated coral reef ecosystems on earth. Scientific research conducted in the public trust land and waters of these islands should be done in a way that supports conservation of the ecosystem and minimizes impacts of research activities. You can show US and Hawaii agencies that citizens around the globe care about the world heritage coral reefs in Hawaii, by signing on to the responsible science petition here.

Good, responsible and sound science is integral to envisioning and creating a better, greener world! Support the scientists and researchers that are doing this good work. I encourage you to take a few seconds in direct action–lend your voice and support and defend good science!