End of year "final exam":

Quickly, name a female movie star.

Male movie star:

Country singer:

Republican running for President:

Pop singer:

Pro athlete:

Governor:

Writer:

Talk show personality:

Religious leader:

Living Scientist:




Hah! Gotcha on that last one, didn't I?

Most people can't name one living scientist in ANY field.
Why not? Well, for one reason, they're not controversial (like a Palin or Trump), certainly not popular. They're not on TV or in movies. They're unnewsworthy.
It would be even more difficult to name a specific area scientist, i.e. an astronomer or geologist. You could probably name a mass murderer before a scientist!

This fact is really a shame--actually, a tragedy and injustice. For all the good scientists do to make a better world, they get little credit or recognition. Those headline grabbers get all the attention--and for what? It's rather sad and sickening.

I haven't read it yet, but it's on my list: "Unscientific America: How Science Illiteracy Threatens Our Future", by Chris Mooney. I can imagine the premise and outcome in the book. It will probably be depressing.

Most Americans are required to take biology in high school. A major topic is evolution (or should be). Still, 63% of adults refute it. Religious faith trumps scientific facts. I'm betting that the number of Americans belonging to the group "Union of Concerned Scientists" (of which I'm a member) is miniscule to those that contribute to some religious "cause" or church. Those that toot the loudest gets the most attention.

Have you thought of a scientist yet?
Have a great weekend!