Turkey: Science magazine editor allegedly fired for evolution coverage

Dr. Cigem Atakuman: Expressed CCS concern about the suppression of an issue on evolution in a scientific magazine published by TUBITAK, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey, and with the firing of the publication’s editor. The March issue of “Bilim ve Teknik” (Science & Technology), which would have covered Darwin and his contributions to science, was changed at the last minute to cover another topic, which would omit all reference to Darwin and evolution. One source stated that the decision was made by the Vice President of TUBITAK, Dr. Omer Cebeci and that Dr. Cigdem Atakuman, the editor, was fired for planning the issue on Darwin. The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBITAK) is the leading agency for management, funding and conduct of research in Turkey.