The COVID-19 pandemic has affected millions around the globe. But even despite countless deaths, global lockdowns, political unrest, and economic uncertainty there are many who insist the science behind public health policies, viral transmission research, and vaccine development is not only wrong but is part of a global agenda. So how did we get here, how has science become politicized, and what does it mean to "follow the science?" To answer these questions, Ubiquity's editors have come together to present a comprehensive overview on how science works.

Each "Communication Corner" essay is self-contained; however, they build on each other. For best results, before reading this essay and doing the exercise, go to the first essay "How an Ugly Duckling Became a Swan," then read each succeeding essay.

Over the decades, hundreds if not thousands of books have been published on the keys to good writing. However, barely a handful have reached the status of "must reading." Here is one of them.