This U.S. Government Shutdown Is Very Bad for Science

Scientific AmericanThursday, October 2, 2025 at 7:00:00 PM
NegativeScience
The looming U.S. government shutdown poses a significant threat to scientific research and funding, as outlined by President Trump's budget office. With guidelines for mass federal layoffs, the halt in government operations could disrupt ongoing projects and delay critical advancements in various scientific fields. This situation matters because it not only affects researchers and institutions but also has broader implications for innovation and public health.
— Curated by the World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended Readings
Jane Goodall’s Legacy of Challenging What It Means to Be a Scientist
PositiveScience
Jane Goodall has significantly reshaped our understanding of what it means to be a scientist, particularly through her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees. Her approach emphasizes the importance of empathy and conservation in scientific research, inspiring a new generation of scientists to consider the ethical implications of their work. This transformation is crucial as it encourages a more holistic view of science that integrates human values with research, ultimately benefiting both the scientific community and the environment.
Costly and Deadly Wildfires Really Are on the Rise, New Research Finds
NegativeScience
Recent research highlights a troubling trend: wildfires are becoming more frequent and deadly, with a fourfold increase in devastating blazes from 1980 to 2023, largely attributed to climate change. This matters because it underscores the urgent need for action to combat climate change and protect communities from the escalating threat of wildfires.
4 reasons why you keep abandoning your fitness trackers (and how to stop them from happening again)
NeutralScience
Many people struggle to maintain their fitness trackers, often leaving them unused. This article explores four common reasons for this trend, backed by scientific insights. Understanding these factors can help users stay engaged with their devices, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and more effective fitness tracking.
Jane Goodall, Revered Chimpanzee Expert and Conservationist, Dies at 91
NegativeScience
Jane Goodall, the renowned chimpanzee expert and conservationist, has passed away at the age of 91. Her groundbreaking research in the 1960s transformed our understanding of chimpanzee behavior and is celebrated as a monumental achievement in science. Goodall's work not only shed light on the lives of these remarkable creatures but also emphasized the importance of conservation efforts. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations to protect wildlife and their habitats.
Jane Goodall – a life in pictures
NegativeScience
Jane Goodall, the world-renowned primatologist known for her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees, has passed away at the age of 91. Her contributions to science and conservation have left an indelible mark on our understanding of primates and the importance of protecting their habitats. Goodall's legacy will continue to inspire future generations to advocate for wildlife and environmental preservation.
Why abandoning psychedelic research in the 1970s was a blow to science
NegativeScience
The article discusses how the abandonment of psychedelic research in the 1970s due to political backlash against drugs was a significant setback for science. This decision not only halted potential medical advancements but also reflects ongoing societal intolerance towards certain fields of study. Understanding this history is crucial as it highlights the importance of open-mindedness in scientific exploration and the potential benefits that could arise from revisiting these substances in a controlled, research-focused environment.
NASA closes doors to 15,000 employees as US government shutdown begins
NegativeScience
NASA has announced that over 80% of its workforce, approximately 15,000 employees, will be furloughed as the US government shutdown takes effect. This significant reduction in staff not only impacts ongoing space missions and research but also raises concerns about the future of various projects and the agency's overall productivity. The shutdown highlights the broader implications of government funding issues on critical scientific endeavors.
Is Tylenol Safe for Children? What Research Shows About Acetaminophen
NeutralScience
Recent statements by President Trump have raised concerns about the safety of Tylenol for young children, specifically regarding acetaminophen. This has sparked a discussion about the existing research on the medication's effects on children. Understanding the science behind acetaminophen is crucial for parents and caregivers, as it is commonly used to treat pain and fever in children. The ongoing debate highlights the importance of relying on scientific evidence when it comes to children's health.
Trump Announces Pfizer Deal to Lower Some Drug Prices and Unveils TrumpRx Website
PositiveScience
President Trump has announced a new initiative aimed at lowering drug prices through a deal with Pfizer, alongside the launch of the TrumpRx website. This platform will enable consumers to purchase medications directly from manufacturers, potentially saving them money and increasing access to essential drugs. This move is significant as it addresses ongoing concerns about high prescription costs and aims to empower consumers in their healthcare choices.
Latest from Science
Science history: Invention of the transistor ushers in the computing era — Oct. 3, 1950
PositiveScience
On October 3, 1950, three scientists from Bell Labs were awarded a patent for a groundbreaking invention known as the transistor, marking the beginning of the transistor age and revolutionizing modern computing. This innovation is significant because it laid the foundation for the development of all electronic devices we rely on today, from computers to smartphones, fundamentally changing how we live and work.
Jane Goodall, Revered Chimpanzee Expert and Conservationist, Dies at 91
NegativeScience
Jane Goodall, the renowned chimpanzee expert and conservationist, has passed away at the age of 91. Her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees in the wild transformed our understanding of these remarkable creatures and highlighted the importance of wildlife conservation. Goodall's legacy will continue to inspire future generations to protect the environment and advocate for animal rights, making her loss deeply felt in the scientific community and beyond.
Kennedy Fires N.I.H. Scientist Who Filed Whistle-Blower Complaint
NegativeScience
In a controversial move, Kennedy has terminated the employment of a scientist at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) who filed a whistleblower complaint. This decision raises significant concerns about the treatment of whistleblowers in government agencies and the potential chilling effect it may have on others who might consider speaking out against misconduct. The implications of this action could undermine trust in scientific integrity and accountability within federal institutions.
Russia targets UK military satellites on weekly basis
NegativeScience
Recent reports indicate that Russia is actively targeting UK military satellites on a weekly basis, raising significant concerns about national security. The UK's Ministry of Defence has revealed that Moscow is attempting to gather intelligence from British spacecraft, which could have serious implications for military operations and the safety of sensitive information. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between the two nations and the increasing threats posed by cyber and space warfare.
FDA Approves Generic Version of Abortion Pill Mifepristone
NegativeScience
The FDA's approval of a generic version of the abortion pill mifepristone has sparked outrage among opponents of abortion, who have been advocating for tighter restrictions on access to abortion medications. This decision is significant as it could increase the availability of abortion services, which remains a contentious issue in the U.S. political landscape.
From tool use to warfare — here are 5 ways Jane Goodall revolutionized our knowledge of chimpanzees
NegativeScience
Jane Goodall, the pioneering primatologist who passed away at 91, transformed our understanding of chimpanzees in remarkable ways. Her groundbreaking research revealed their use of tools and complex social behaviors, reshaping how we view our closest living relatives. Goodall's work not only advanced primatology but also highlighted the importance of conservation efforts. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations to protect wildlife and understand the intricate connections between humans and animals.