- #61
nismaratwork
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Andy said:
On that, we can agree.
The general public is scientifically illiterate
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Discussion Overview
The discussion centers on the perceived scientific illiteracy of the general public, exploring the implications of this issue and potential ways to address it. Participants reference various sources, including comments from a tech blog, and share personal observations about the understanding of science among different groups, including engineers and the general populace.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Exploratory
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- Some participants express concern about the lack of understanding of scientific concepts among the general public, citing specific examples from online comments.
- There is a suggestion that those with a better grasp of science have a responsibility to educate others.
- Some participants argue that while the public may be scientifically illiterate, it is important to determine what knowledge is essential for them to possess.
- One participant notes that the misuse of scientific terminology contributes to misunderstandings.
- Concerns are raised about the accessibility of science due to jargon and complex theories, suggesting that education should focus on logical thinking and the importance of science.
- Some participants draw parallels between scientific illiteracy and other forms of illiteracy, such as financial or musical illiteracy.
- There are differing views on whether the general public's lack of scientific knowledge is a problem or simply a matter of personal choice and priorities.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree that the public is scientifically illiterate, but there is no consensus on the implications of this or the best methods for improvement. Multiple competing views exist regarding the importance of scientific understanding and the role of education.
Contextual Notes
Some participants highlight the complexity of scientific language and concepts as barriers to understanding, while others emphasize the need for a more fundamental grasp of scientific principles rather than technical details.
Who May Find This Useful
This discussion may be of interest to educators, scientists, and individuals involved in public outreach or communication of scientific concepts, as well as those concerned with the general public's understanding of science.
On that, we can agree.
- #62
collinsmark
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One of my Abstruse Goose favorites. (http://abstrusegoose.com/" )
[PLAIN]http://abstrusegoose.com/strips/ignorance.PNG
Formal link: http://abstrusegoose.com/205"
[PLAIN]http://abstrusegoose.com/strips/ignorance.PNG
Formal link: http://abstrusegoose.com/205"
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- #63
nismaratwork
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collinsmark said:
I like the "I am become death" reference; it makes the punchline that much sweeter.
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- #64
Vagn
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For some reason I suspect that headlines like this don't exactly promote scientific literacy:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencet...n-sense-touch-patients-artificial-limbs.html"
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencet...n-sense-touch-patients-artificial-limbs.html"
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- #65
nismaratwork
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Vagn said:
*facepalm*
Yeah, I can't imagine that does help at all... ugh.
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- #66
lisab
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Vagn said:
That really made me laugh! Then, on second thought...not so much.
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- #67
nismaratwork
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lisab said:
I think it's for that very reason that humans are constructed to laugh and cry at the same time. *craughs*
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