Scientists must have a voice in society

We are publishing a speech by mathematician, Dr. physics and mathematics Sciences A. M. Vershik at the “TrV-Science Birthday”

Very, very briefly. The first is a quote. If the “Trinity Option” did not exist, then it would have to be invented. But, fortunately, he appeared. He occupied a niche that was completely unoccupied and now, except for him, is not filled by anyone. And he doesn’t occupy her completely either.

I am partly considered an extremist, so my next words should be taken with caution. I think the Trinity Option needs more scientific and political activity. Scientists have no voice in society. Look at this wonderful period: Bolotnaya, Sakharov Avenue and so on. Apart from Mikhail Sergeevich [Gelfand], none of the scientists spoke there.

But that's not even the point. The point of view of some scientists is not represented in society in any way. The approach to what is happening in the country does not in any way correlate with the possibilities of a truly scientific approach, and this is necessary. I'm afraid to recommend this because it has its limitations, if you understand what they are. But it is impossible to live without this, because scientists must be more active.

Compare this with the situation in the States. It cannot be said that all universities there are democratic, much less that they are all republican, but there are very clear opinions there, they coexist, and this is something that we also have to somehow get used to. We don't have that. And I think that this wonderful publication, in which, fortunately, I have been participating almost by accident since the first issue, it will and should exist. I would really like to see this line continued. And there is absolutely no need to talk about the substance here, because you all know what I am hinting at. Thank you.