Seismologists Tried for Manslaughter for Not Predicting Earthquake

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The trial of seven Italian seismologists and a government official for manslaughter following the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake raises significant concerns about accountability in science. Critics argue that predicting earthquakes is inherently unreliable, and the scientists did not have sufficient evidence to warrant public alarm before the disaster, which resulted in around 300 deaths. The discussion highlights a broader issue of "blame culture," where experts may be held responsible for natural events beyond their control, potentially hindering future scientific efforts. Some participants suggest that the focus should instead be on building regulations and government preparedness rather than punishing scientists. The trial is set to begin on September 20, with potential prison sentences of up to 12 years for those convicted.
  • #31
Evo said:
This is beyond absurd
I'll say.

I thought it was an April fool's joke when I opened the thread
 
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  • #32
. . . particularly with regard to information the committee may have had about which buildings were more likely to crumble.
Well, unless they are structural engineers, they are not responsible for the buildings, or the building codes, or the crappy construction. All the seismologist can say, is that we've had earthquakes, and we will have more. They cannot predict future earthquakes with high levels of certainty.
 
  • #33
They want someone to blame so that they won't feel guilty about their decisions. But this is outrageous. Good point about the seismologists not being engineers.
 
  • #34
Astronuc said:
Well, unless they are structural engineers, they are not responsible for the buildings, or the building codes, or the crappy construction. All the seismologist can say, is that we've had earthquakes, and we will have more. They cannot predict future earthquakes with high levels of certainty.

Excellent point,

When China had earthquake they went after structural engineers .. here, I wonder if all this trail is an idea coming from structural engineers :biggrin:
 
  • #35
All the seismologist can say, is that we've had earthquakes, and we will have more.
Of course I realize in the context the above quote is correct but it makes it sound like a third grade dropout could be a seismologist. Haha. Best laugh I've had on here for a while.
 
  • #36
Averagesupernova said:
Of course I realize in the context the above quote is correct but it makes it sound like a third grade dropout could be a seismologist. Haha. Best laugh I've had on here for a while.

I think their role is very important for long term policies but I don't understand why the heck they were doing meeting minutes and what is the purpose of those.
 
  • #37
The minutes of a meeting are like notes of what was discussed during the meeting--if that is the context in which it was used.