Fisheries scientists` struggle for objectivity

Abstract

Traditionally, objectivity and neutrality along with testability and significance have been important standards of science. However, science has changed profoundly from small-scale experiments to large-scale problems of societal concern. Thus a revised set of scientific standards and ideals of quality is necessary. Fisheries scientists are educated at universities where traditional ideals are essential. In this paper I discuss objectivity and neutrality as measures of quality and how fisheries scientist relate to these ideals. Scientific ideals are challenged, and examples are discussed within fish stock assessment, whale counting and fisheries data.