answered: In policy debates, proponents of a specific policy often wil

  

In policy debates, proponents of a specific policy often will claim that the scientific evidence used to support the policy is sufficient to establish cause and effect. This claim is then used to support enactment and implementation of the policy. Opponents of the policy will often ask for greater certainty or proof beyond a shadow of a doubt that the policy will accomplish the goals established for it. The opponents will assert that the policy should not be enacted until that certainty is attained. Based on what you read this week, how attainable is scientific certainty? Is it possible to establish that a policy will accomplish exactly the effect expected from it? What are the limits to “proof, and what factors limit establishing that kind of proof? Use examples from a current policy area such as air, toxics, water, or climate change. As part of your answer, please provide a brief discussion of the precautionary principle and how it applies to this policy decision. Please respond in a minimum of 500 words.