It takes work for human beings to know reality and to form and achieve values within it. Understanding this work enables us to take greater control of our minds and our lives. MAIN RESEARCHER Gregory Salmieri Human beings—many of us, at least—aspire to be objective in our thinking and our decision-making. We aspire to conform […]
The Disutility of SEIR Model Forecasts During the COVID-19 Pandemic
What are students in the Policy Research Laboratory working on? MAIN RESEARCHERS PRL Students Forecasting models developed by academics are rarely used in high-stakes decision making. When COVID-19 hit, epidemiologists built curve-fitting models (SEIR models) to forecast viral trends, and these predictions were used to justify punishing lockdowns and school closures. These models generated *ridiculously […]
In Defense of Merit in Science
Merit is a central pillar of liberal epistemology, humanism, and democracy. Author Carlos Carvalho Merit is a central pillar of liberal epistemology, humanism, and democracy. The scientific enterprise, built on merit, has proven effective in generating scientific and technological advances, reducing suffering, narrowing social gaps, and improving the quality of life globally. This perspective documents […]
Objectivism Program
Exploring and applying Ayn Rand’s philosophy of reason, egoism, and capitalism. MAIN RESEARCHER Gregory Salmieri AFFILIATED FACULTY Tara Smith Gena Gorlin The Salem Center’s Objectivism Program (co-sponsored by the Ayn Rand Institute) aims to foster the study of Ayn Rand’s philosophy and its applications to contemporary affairs. We support research about and informed by Objectivism, […]