Western Political Scientism

The political doctrine that science (as defined by Western institutions) should be the sole basis for public policy and that all political questions are ultimately scientific questions, solvable by experts. It depoliticises inherently contested issues (e.g., economic distribution, climate justice, public health priorities) by framing them as technical matters requiring evidence‑based answers. Western political scientism elevates the scientist to philosopher‑king, and the citizen to a subject who must defer to expertise. It is the dream of politics without conflict—and therefore without democracy.

Example: “The governor declared that ‘science, not politics’ would decide school reopenings, then ignored community concerns—Western political scientism, using expertise to shut down debate while claiming neutrality.”

Western Political Scientism by Abzugal May 5, 2026