Why science? Why AAAS?

Abstract

Among the various ways of thinking and knowing about the universe and ourselves, science is special. Asking questions that can be answered empirically and engaging in open communication so that others can collectively review and verify possible answers lead to the most reliable knowledge—a knowledge that is powerfully applicable in daily life. Science is, as physician and essayist Lewis Thomas wrote, the “shrewdest maneuver” for discovering the world. This grand and clever enterprise, while surely not removing all worldly woes, brings beauty, wonderfully fulfilling intellectual pleasure, and cultural enrichment. It can lead to improved human interaction, more constructive commerce, and a better quality of life. Science helps bring what I think is a deep human need—a sense of progress.

Microbiologists’ Public Engagement Views and Behaviors

“…Our results also clarify why microbiologists may be drawn to engagement opportunities, with some of these factors— particularly age and norms—suggesting microbiologists may harbor some unique and desirable qualities relative to outreach. When considering the chorus of voices calling for the improvement and proliferation of science communication ( 8 , 10 , 49 ), stakeholders interested in strengthening dialogue between the microbiological sciences and the public should be encouraged by these results and consider investing further in the public communication of microbiology.…”

“…Decades later, the scientific community is working harder than ever to encourage scientists to become proactive, frequent, and effective public communicators ( 3 – 7 ). Indeed, the current president of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), Rush Holt, explains that “science needs the support of the society it serves” and that “communication and education among scientists, engineers, and the public must improve” in order to garner that support ( 8 ). Holt’s contention echoes those frequently expressed by his AAAS predecessor, past president of the organization Alan I. Leshner ( 9 – 11 ).…”

Reassessing the Variables Used to Measure Public Perceptions of Scientists

“…Scientists are increasingly expected to participate in science communication and public engagement efforts (Burchell, 2015; Dudo & Besley, 2016; Holt, 2015; Rainie et al, 2015) and such communication can influence public perceptions of these scientists. These engagement activities may include social media outreach, citizen science projects, and public lectures.…”

Contribution of Training to Scientists’ Public Engagement Intentions: A Test of Indirect Relationships Using Parallel Multiple Mediation

“…The scientific community seems ready to acknowledge these issues and increasingly recognizes the importance of making their research more accessible to the public. Scientists are being asked to take a central role in this communication (Biegelbauer & Hansen, 2011; European Commission, 2002; Holt, 2015; Jia & Liu, 2014; Leshner, 2007). Indeed, there have been recent calls from many prominent scientific societies urging scientists to be more intentional with their public outreach and its impact on society (Bailey, 2010; Cicerone, 2006; Holt, 2015; Leshner, 2007; National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2016).…”