Given the LIGO results lets use some humor

  • Thread starter Thread starter jim mcnamara
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Humor Ligo
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers around the LIGO results and the public's understanding of complex scientific topics. The user references the xkcd comic (http://xkcd.com/1642/) as a humorous yet effective way to address misconceptions among educated individuals regarding LIGO's findings. The sentiment expressed highlights a perceived gap in comprehension, suggesting that a more relatable approach, such as humor, could enhance public engagement with scientific discourse.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory) and its significance in physics.
  • Familiarity with scientific communication and public engagement strategies.
  • Knowledge of humor as a tool for education, particularly in complex subjects.
  • Awareness of internet culture and its impact on the dissemination of scientific information.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore effective science communication techniques to bridge knowledge gaps.
  • Research the impact of humor in educational contexts, particularly in STEM fields.
  • Analyze public perception of scientific discoveries through social media platforms.
  • Investigate the role of comics and visual media in explaining complex scientific concepts.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for educators, science communicators, and anyone interested in improving public understanding of scientific advancements, particularly in the field of gravitational wave astronomy.

jim mcnamara
Mentor
Messages
4,789
Reaction score
3,852
http://xkcd.com/1642/

I've made a suggestion like this before. The LIGO results are wonderful, but the questions from "out there" sometimes display a level of understanding best dealt with the xkcd.com comic linked above. My opinion only.

I've made this suggestion before. With regard to the sad (IMO) level of understanding I see in my "educated" coworkers about these kinds of topics, I would humbly suggest that this comic works well. Sigh.
Too bad the investigators were not all named 'whatever Kardashian'. Then it would play a lot better -- out there somewhere on the internet.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Borg and nsaspook
Physics news on Phys.org
I suppose you really mean

 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: dlgoff and OmCheeto

Similar threads

Undergrad Modeling the effects of GW and the "Earth Frame"
  • · Replies 66 ·
3
Replies
66
Views
7K
Graduate Focus all of your ire on me, if you would
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
How to deal with unethical coworkers?
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Three new books to read about expertise vs. democracy
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Graduate What Makes Orodruin's Physics Journey Unique?
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
4K
Is Intelligence the Only Measure of Success in Medicine and STEM Fields?
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
18K
The Scientist as Hero - or not
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Trying to decipher transient flow results
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Mathematica This Week's Finds in Mathematical Physics (Week 241)
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
5K
Weak and Strong Emergence, what is it?
  • · Replies 77 ·
3
Replies
77
Views
16K