In last week’s table talk we discussed the March for Science that was to happen on Earth Day. The March for Science was an event coordinated by many individuals who fear that science will not be taken seriously or given priority in the new government in power. Due to the history of denying climate change, lack of support for women’s biological rights, and a general distaste in studying clean energy, the future of science seems grim. With the new government proposing billions of dollars worth of cuts to organizations such as the NIH, NASA, USDA, and many more, it is clear that the new government does not see science as a priority. Because of this, many want to mobilize and voice their concerns. We discussed how we must be the voices that gap the everyday man to the scientists. Currently many don’t prioritize science research because they do not understand it. Scientists are unable or unwilling to explain the importance of some of their research to the general person, and due to this disconnect, people just have a lack of enthusiasm and care for research. Without care, they are less likely to support measures that increase funding or prioritize science. To spread awareness is an important goal.
During the table talk we discussed how much money the current administration is taking away from research funding, and some of the amounts were frightening. Billions of dollars were being cut from clean energy initiatives, which was not extremely surprising, but a lot was also being taking from branches such as the NIH and USDA, segments of science where the importance of these two branches has been proven.
To spread awareness and education are what we should be worried about. To spread the truths about climate change and the facts that support clean, renewable energy, we might be able to save our planet and move towards a healthier, greener world. We will need a lot of support for this to occur, and that is why education is crucial. Those of us with science backgrounds must find a way to bridge the gap between the regular population and scientists in order to spread this message.
I agree with you strongly about the importance of science in government and policy, and share your concern regarding the disconnect between the general population and scientists. I attended the March for Science in D.C. this past weekend, and it was incredibly encouraging to see so many people turn out to support science, but there should have been so many more. It says something about the current sociopolitical climate of our country that this march was even necessary, and that in itself is alarming. I think that demystifying science through outreach/education programs for adults and children alike is a strong method for encouraging people to be aware, and vote in consideration of, scientific issues both now and in the future.
While I also think the mission and goals of the march are awesome, it is pretty unfortunate that it was even needed in the first place. I think you raise a pretty interesting point about bridging the gap/creating more communication between the scientific community and the general public, and I definitely think that would be immensely beneficial for allowing people to realize the state of our planet and the types of actions we can engage in to make a positive impact.