Why is science important? Ask this life-long scientist...
At Scifest Africa, an annual celebration of the sciences, it is not unreasonable to question the rationale for the event. Scientists insist that everything must be questioned and the very existence of science is not immune to inquiry.
In his lecture on March 14, Prof Mike Bruton, a life-long scientist, will pose the question: “Why is science important?”
Currently a new science paper is published roughly every 20 seconds according to the authoritative US magazine, Science. Put another way, the academic production of all the science papers in the entire year of 1880 is equal to about seven-and-a-half hours production today.
In other words, the amount of scientific research being conducted today far exceeds individual comprehension. There is a lot of science out there and it is making our food more nutritious, our medication more effective, our smart phones more powerful and our transport system more fuel efficient.
Yet with all this science improving our lives dramatically, paradoxically resistance to science also appears to be gathering momentum, as people question the value of science and of science-based products. Also, significant scientific advances in genetic engineering (including stem cell research), childhood immunisations and important discoveries such as evolution and global warming are being challenged.
Furthermore, anti-science from religious extremists and pseudo-sciences such as numerology, astrology and ancient alien theories are also gaining popularity, especially through social media. Proof of this anti-science swing can be observed in the many newspapers and magazines that carry regular horoscope columns but no regular science content.
We cannot afford to undervalues science because it not only provides the basic tools for us to understand our constructed and natural environments but also the theoretical framework for new technologies that allow us to improve our standard of living while also living more sustainably.
The scientific method also provides us with an objective way of thinking and problem solving that is useful in all walks of life.
Based on Bruton's experience carrying out scientific research and teaching science in societies that value science, and some that don’t, a strong argument is presented for society to appreciate the value of science and the benefits that it brings to all the inhabitants of the planet.
After doing and teaching science throughout his life, Bruton claims he has reached his second childhood and now spends time with the little critters that fascinate him, such as beetles, ants and spiders, as well as with children.
For fun, he measures how fast beans grow, photographs dead fish and talks to the bacteria in his compost heap! He also asks himself difficult questions about the meaning of life, and needs the help of some bright young minds to answer these questions.
If you’re still not convinced of the importance of science, there are many other lectures, workshop and exhibitions that you should see that will perhaps change your mind. But don’t forget to go to Bruton’s lecture on Tuesday, March 14 at the Olive Schreiner Hall at the Monument.