So, What Makes a Scientist Mad?

Well, for starters, let’s talk about a society that is, compared to the rest of the world, not only largely ignorant of science, but perversely proud of its ingnorance. Large percentages of the American public, including a distressing number of political candidates, do not believe in evolution. Many, however, believe that there is still a scientific debate about whether or not Global Climate Change is happening, and if human activity is contributing to it. Legitimate stem cell research has been stalled for almost a decade, alternative energy research is chronically underfunded, and until fairly recently, manned exploration of space was considered a quaint joke.

Some of that may change with a new administration in Washington, but many of the underlying causes remain. I am a high school science teacher. I am frequently disheartened by students who not only know little about science, but consider the entire subject to be nothing more than a set of static facts, written down by dead white men, that they, the students, must memorize, not to get any understanding of or try to influence the universe around them, but simply to pass a standardized test.

Even as I write this, real scientists are striving to literally unlock the mysteries of the universe. Particle physicists are conducting the largest experiment in history at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN to discover the subatomic particles that will give us a better understanding of matter and energy. Geneticists, having decoded the human genome, are now endeavoring to use that knowledge to fight previously incurable diseases, retard the aging process and offer new hope to those with disabilities. Nanotechnologists are feverishly working to manipulate materials at the atomic level, producing new materials and new processes that offer to revolutionize modern life. And yet, all of these wonders combined get less press coverage than Brittany Spears.

Let me hasten to add, however, that I am a mad scientist, but not a hopeless one. If you and I can instill some of our love of science, if we can convince others that it is pivotal to understanding how the world works and to improving the lives of people all over that world, if we can advocate for better and more comprehensive science education and funding, then you and I may have a chance of changing the world for the better. If you agree with me, then please send your comments and ideas. If you disagree with me, then please tell me how and why I am insane. You won’t be the first.