Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, leading scientists advised Americans that wearing a mask to prevent the spread of COVID was unnecessary. Masks were in short supply and badly needed by medical personnel. In addition, based on their experience with other viral diseases, scientists expected that only people with symptoms could spread the infection. Instead, they recommended that people experiencing symptoms immediately isolate themselves. However, once it became clear that, unlike other viruses, the virus that causes COVID-19 is readily spread by individuals who have no symptoms and therefore don’t know they are infected, the same scientists reversed themselves—recommending universal masking.
Which of the following statements about scientists is correct?
A. Scientists should never give advice that takes any consideration into account except the science. Thus, the fact that masks were in short supply should have been irrelevant.
B. Scientists must be willing to change their opinions quickly, whenever important new data become available.
C. Scientists should always be very hesitant about changing their previous opinions, so as not to damage the public’s belief in science as the truth.
D. The fact that scientists can reverse their recommendations demonstrates that following science advice is not necessarily a good way to plan your life.
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