The manslaughter charges look like prosecution overreach, but the civil malpractice claims might not be such a bad idea if they were aimed at the government bureaucrats as well.
Here's the story from BBC. The Italian government formed a panel called the "Serious Risk Commission" and assigned it the job of assessing the risks after hundreds of low-level tremors rattled L'Aquila, Italy. The panel reported that there was no reason to believe that the tremors were precursors to a larger event. Everyone quit worrying and sheltered in place when the next tremors hit. Unfortunately, the next tremors were from a major earthquake which caused the deaths of over 300 people.
The scientists should have consulted U.S. lawyers for a good disclaimer. "Caution: We will not be responsible for any loss of life or property that results from following our advice. Our advice is merely for the purpose of placating you, not making you safer."
Bloggers who have addressed this are in an uproar over the fact the scientists have been charged and sued. Examples here and here. But there's another side.
When government bureaucrats and their experts take on the job of assessing a situation, get it wrong, and it cost lives and fortunes, then they should expect some blow back. This brings to mind the global warming hysteria which had scientists finagling the research and stifling the opposition for a goal which would have cost trillions if they got their way. Some of them should be prosecuted.
Updated 10/22/2012: The trial ended, and six scientists were convicted and sentenced to six years in prison. See BBC. Their lawyers said an appeal is planned.
who you going to sue if 2012 isnt so quiet the maya?
Posted by: Jeff | November 27, 2011 at 02:57 PM