>

CREATIVE ACTIVISM LAB

Everyone now acknowledges that scientists have actual expertise in the problems we face. They should be granted a bonus vote in every election to reflect this.

“One person one vote” sounds reasonable. 

But in practice it is failing us.

From pandemic preparedness to the climate emergency. 

We live in a new world where the crucial issues require scientific expertise to solve.  

Yet where vested interests are experts at confusing the public.

Helping populist demagogues gain power.

Giving scientists an extra vote would help tip the balance back.

With due checks on qualifications of course.

“Plural votes” have existed in the past, for the wrong reasons.

Today’s context is fundamentally different. 

They are due for a comeback.

© artwork Matthieu Bourel

STAGE: EXPLORATION

This proposal goes against our fundamental self-understanding of democracy. However the current variant of democracy is not proving up to the task of saving the planet, so far. Are there other ways of harnessing the urgent expertise of science?