Franklin wrote so much, that we could have him agree with almost anything.
I agree with you in that there is a false perception that sciences is the end all to all answers and problems in society. The problem I see with many is the tendency to lump science, industry and policy all under one umbrella. Most times the people doing have little influence over how their work is used or what policies are implemented.
You are correct in admonishing those who promote science as inviolate, those that do are wrong. Though this view is just as wrong as the naturalistic idea that everything that is natural is good. It is not just drugs from companies that have side effects all drugs do, including the natural ones. There is no getting around that fact, by their very nature drugs (natural and synthetic) will have side effects, otherwise they would not be drugs.
I have often said here and other places that the true breakthrough in health will come when we figure out how to get people to live healthy lives and avoid bad choices. Clearly making them aware of the dangers (smoking, obesity, trans-fats etc.) is not enough to compel action - information is not enough. Who ever can figure out what will compel people to live healthy lives will safe; to alter behavior as to promote healthy choices will be making one of the greatest contributions to humanity.