Well, I'm going to have to disagree with this view, which would suggest scientists alone should direct public policy with no counterbalance or role for the rest of us.
Science is only saying what the outcomes will most likely be. That's not the same thing as saying the tradeoffs are worth it.
That said, many things are like useing seatbelts in that the downside risk is vastly more than the upside. Thus, ignorance simply results in worse outcomes.
