What is the problem with Reuters' glossary of particle physics terms?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around criticisms of Reuters' glossary of particle physics terms, highlighting perceived inaccuracies and poor definitions. Participants express frustration over the quality of science reporting in the media, particularly regarding fundamental physics concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants criticize specific definitions, such as the description of protons and electrons as types of hadrons, suggesting it reflects a lack of understanding.
  • Others point out that phrases like "a mysterious, invisible material that has an anti-gravitational power" indicate poor editorial quality and a lack of rigorous fact-checking.
  • Concerns are raised about the implications of such inaccuracies on public understanding of physics, with some arguing that it might be better to withhold information than to present incorrect information.
  • A few participants suggest that the errors could be attributed to tight deadlines and inadequate editorial oversight, leading to a subpar product.
  • There is a call for news agencies to employ knowledgeable individuals, such as undergraduate physics students, for better accuracy in reporting.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the inadequacies of the glossary and the broader issue of poor science reporting in the media. However, there is no consensus on how best to address these issues or on the implications of such inaccuracies.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of sensitivity to errors based on their backgrounds, with some focusing on physics while others mention similar issues in biological reporting. The discussion reflects a broader concern about the reliability of media sources in conveying scientific information.

  • #31
The best part of Yahoo Answers is that the person who asked (and hence doesn't know) gets to decide the "CORRECT" answer.
 
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  • #32
inflector said:
The best part of Yahoo Answers is that the person who asked (and hence doesn't know) gets to decide the "CORRECT" answer.

Oh now THAT explains a lot... I did not know that. What the **** is Yahoo thinking?! *imagines the vast emptiness of the Yahoo corporate intellect*
 
  • #33
No yahoo answers is way fun best thing on yahoo honestly.
 
  • #34
rhody said:
Phrases like: scream high school or college intern to me, combine that with lackadasical review and you get what you see in the article.

How would you define dark energy? That definition seems very good to me.
 
  • #35
RE:
A mysterious, invisible material that has an anti-gravitational power

I think this is misleading for several reasons:

1) "Mysterious" as a word adds no scientific descriptive value but serves to sensationalize the definition.

2) "Material" implies matter rather than energy.

3) "Anti-gravitational" implies that there is such a thing as anti-gravity.
 

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