The Union of Concerned Scientists, (UCS) a science-based nonprofit organization working towards a healthy environment and safer world, has announced its 7th annual cartoon contest. Deadline for submission is July 1, 2012.
UCS asks for cartoons that show a creative take “on the important role science should play in American democracy – and the barriers that get in the way.”
The group has long stated that true democracy counts on the ability of all citizens (including, especially, elected politicians) to understand legitimate scientific information. It has become increasingly frustrated at the way ideologies, financial interests “and a 24-hour digital news cycle that demands sensation and controversy” mean that science that is widely endorsed worldwide is “commonly rejected” in America’s public discourse.
The group lists suggested topics and an entry form on its Web site, which also gives entertaining examples of previous winning entries. UCS believes that one great cartoon can encourage thousands of people to think about the importance of legitimate science in a democracy.
UCS cautions that it is not interested in cartoons that are partisan or profane.
