Science's role in society is threatened. Protest is the right response | John P Holdren

Some say that the March for Science risks making science political. But it already is - and not addressing that is a problem

Tens of thousands of scientists and supporters of science are pouring into the streets of Washington DC and other cities around the world on Saturday in a massive March for Science, aimed at highlighting the importance of science to society and the need for basing government policies on evidence.

But some thoughtful people, including some very distinguished scientists, have argued that the March is a mistake - that, by marching, scientists will create the impression that they are just one more interest group and, worse, will be seen as "politicizing science". I beg to differ. Those criticisms will surely continue to be hurled at the March, but I believe they are off the mark.