From the file. Written for the paper dated July 2020. Opened in the public stacks July 14, 2026.
As scientists keep a vigilant eye on volcano activity across the globe, one can't help but notice how both sides of the political spectrum engage in a curious habit of selective memory when it comes to natural disasters, climate change, and governmental responses.
Volcano Watch: A Reminder of Nature’s Power
In recent weeks, several volcanoes have shown increased activity, prompting scientists and officials to issue warnings and prepare for potential eruptions. Mount St. Helens in Washington and Kilauea in Hawaii are two examples of volcanoes that have captured national attention. As researchers monitor seismic activity and gas emissions, the scientific community emphasizes the need for preparedness, underscoring how nature remains an unpredictable force that demands respect.
Yet, amid these natural phenomena, the political landscape reveals a troubling trend: both the left and the right seem to engage in selective memory when discussing the implications of such disasters. The left tends to emphasize climate change as a predominant factor in the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, including volcanic activity. The right, on the other hand, often downplays these connections, focusing instead on immediate economic impacts and the potential for job loss in industries like tourism and real estate.
Selective Memory and Political Rhetoric
This selective memory manifests in various ways. For example, left-leaning commentators may invoke the science of climate change in their calls for urgent action, while conveniently ignoring the historical context of volcanic eruptions and their natural cycles. Conversely, right-leaning pundits may champion economic resilience but often neglect the long-term environmental consequences of ignoring scientific recommendations. Both sides, in their quest for advocacy, risk oversimplifying complex issues.
“In the face of natural disasters, the truth often takes a back seat to political agendas.”
It is essential to recognize that volcanoes have erupted long before the current debates on climate change emerged. The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 and the eruption of Krakatoa in 1883 serve as historical reminders of nature's unpredictability. These events prompted responses that were not always grounded in scientific understanding but rather in societal panic and political maneuvering.
The Role of Science in Policy Making
As lava flows and ash clouds threaten communities, the role of science becomes paramount. Scientists advocate for evidence-based policy-making, calling for bipartisan support to enhance monitoring networks and disaster preparedness initiatives. However, these recommendations often fall victim to the partisan divide. While one side may champion robust funding for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the other may criticize such allocations as wasteful spending in the face of other pressing social issues.
This divide is not merely academic; it has real-world consequences. Inadequate funding for scientific research and disaster preparedness can lead to catastrophic outcomes during volcanic eruptions. Communities may find themselves ill-equipped to handle evacuations or health crises stemming from ash fallout. As we witness increased volcanic activity, the need for a united front becomes clear. This is not merely a partisan issue - it is a matter of public safety.
A Call for Unity in the Face of Nature
In these moments of crisis, we must remember that nature does not adhere to political ideologies. Volcanoes will erupt, earthquakes will shake, and climate patterns will shift regardless of our beliefs. We need to foster a culture of scientific literacy that transcends political boundaries. Public discussions should focus on how we can better prepare and support communities at risk, rather than getting lost in the weeds of partisan rhetoric.
As we continue to monitor volcanic activity, let us strive for a bipartisan approach that champions science and prioritizes preparedness. By recognizing and addressing our collective selective memory, we can ensure that future generations are better equipped to face the challenges posed by nature.
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