The effect of the phenoxyacetic acid herbicides 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid as ascertained by direct experimentation

In a recent discussion on the social responsibility of the scientist, J. T. Edsall made the point that it is difficult to resolve disputes or issues which involve technology as well as basic science (Edsall 1981). Most public policy issues on the use of technology may be placed in this category. The problems arise because scientific facts and value judgements are so closely interwoven it is exceedingly difficult to disentangle them, and the inferences that are drawn are inconclusive (Edsall 1981).