How does Alexandra van Huffelen look at the trend of discrediting science from a Dutch perspective, as a politician or as president of the Radboud University as well as international perspective?

Alexandra van Huffelen views the trend of discrediting science with significant concern from both a Dutch and an international perspective, drawing on her experiences as both the president of Radboud University and a former politician.

From an international perspective, Van Huffelen highlights the visible trend in the United States where research is being censored, and budgets for researchers are being drastically cut. She notes that this is part of a "slight attacker" where the idea that "science is just an opinion" gains traction. She finds the situation in the US, such as the potential abolishment of the Department of Education by Trump and the cutting of funding for schools allowing "illegal protests," to be "terrible" and a step further in breaking down the foundations of society. She emphasizes the fundamental importance of education and scientific research for a functioning society and sees these actions as undermining that basis.

From a Dutch perspective, Van Huffelen sees a similar "sentiment" seeping into the Netherlands, where critical thinkers might be "muzzled". She stresses that critical inquiry is essential to science, and if scientists cannot investigate, collaborate internationally, or do their work freely, it undermines society. She also points to an article about the judiciary, indicating a broader trend of institutions being questioned, which includes science. Van Huffelen argues that this trend in the Netherlands, along with budget cuts in higher education, should be resisted with all means.

As the president of Radboud University, Van Huffelen sees firsthand the importance of fundamental research for societal progress in areas like medicine and AI. She worries that the questioning of science and underinvestment will hinder the ability of universities to fulfill their crucial tasks of innovation and educating highly skilled personnel. She emphasizes that discrediting science undermines the ability to understand and address critical issues facing society and the economy. She believes universities have a role in showing the concrete benefits of science to society to counter this trend.

As a former politician, Van Huffelen expresses her disappointment and calls the current Dutch government's planned budget cuts for higher education a "very stupid decision" that reverses previous investments. She urges members of the Dutch Senate to oppose these cuts, emphasizing the importance of supporting the growth and flourishing of educational institutions for the benefit of society and the economy, especially given the geopolitical situation and the need for innovation. She connects the trend of discrediting science and underfunding research to a broader undermining of societal foundations.