Public Affairs Professional Underscores Immutable Biological Realities Amidst Politicization of Science

Olivia P. Walker, a prominent public affairs professional and member of the American Association of Political Consultants, recently took to social media to advocate for an end to the "politicization of science." Walker's statement emphasized the necessity of recognizing "incontrovertible, immutable and measurable biological science" and upholding the rule of law over personal ideologies. Her remarks contribute to ongoing public discourse concerning scientific integrity and its influence on policy.

"The politicization of science and things that have nothing to do with electoral politics needs to stop," Walker declared. She directly challenged those who dismiss scientific consensus, stating, "If you deny matters of incontrovertible, immutible and measurable biological science... at least have the morals; ethics and spine to own your bigotry or commitment to ideology that is incompatible with scientific reality and just be honest."

Walker specifically cited "biological genetic ancestry DNA inheritance (the criteria upon which race categories have traditionally been defined in the U.S. until the literal nazi’s got involved in the 1900s as a matter of well documented government law and policy)" as an example of immutable biological realities. Historical research confirms the deep entanglement of American eugenics movements, which influenced Nazi Germany's racial policies, with the legal and social construction of race in the United States. These policies led to forced sterilizations and discriminatory practices based on pseudoscientific notions of racial purity.

The tweet also highlighted the "realities of biological sex— which are immutable and cannot change." Scientific understanding generally defines biological sex based on chromosomal, anatomical, and hormonal factors, which are largely determined at conception and remain consistent throughout an individual's life. However, contemporary discussions acknowledge the spectrum of intersex conditions and the distinction between biological sex and gender identity, which is a social and psychological construct.

Furthermore, Walker stressed the importance of constitutional principles, asserting that "the rule of law (constitution and statutes) is just that, laws of the land: mandates. Not take-it-or-leave-it best practices." She concluded that "immutable and measurable biological realities especially in the context of the constitution’s equal protection et al guarantees trump your opinions." This aligns with legal interpretations where the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment ensures that all individuals are treated equally under the law, often requiring a compelling government interest to justify distinctions based on biological characteristics.

The call for depoliticized science comes as public trust in scientific institutions faces challenges from misinformation, particularly concerning issues like vaccine safety and climate change. Such politicization has been shown to erode public confidence and can have significant societal impacts, including threats to public health and the integrity of scientific research.