What is the meaning of the word “authority” in this context?

Here is an excerpt from the book called I’m right and You’re an idiot.

We need scientists to become more political because pure evidence—facts, figures and flowcharts—cannot form an adequate basis for public debate. Why? Primarily because the public is not equipped to get to the bottom of such a discussion, or analyze all these facts. “And having to work within a notion of consensus closes off argument and authority. We become completely mired in all the epistemology of getting the facts straight.” We must talk about concerns and interests instead.

In this context, what is the meaning of the word “authority”?