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%SCIENTISTS AS COMMUNICATORS 780717
The Editor
The Cedar Rapids Gazette
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Dear Sir:
Scientists play a central role in our modern society.
Yet, scientists are usually regarded as people who do not
communicate well with non-technical people. Their lack of
dialogue has probably contributed to our misuse of science
and technology. We dare not tolerate the continued lack
of dialogue between scientists and non-technical people.
The dialogue breaks down during junior-high and
senior-high school years. As young people enter the
scientific subcultures they adopt the values of
scientists. Those values dominate the lives of
scientists---including the extent to which scientists seek
dialogue with non-technical people. If scientists do not
professionally value dialogue with non-technical people,
they will not take the time to become familiar with the
perspectives and languages of non-technical people.
As a scientist, I am seeking to promote more dialogue
between scientists and non-technical people. This fall I
will be on sabbatical from my formal teaching and
political responsibilities---to study and write in regards
to scientist-citizen dialogue, and how we may promote it.
I invite readers to write or call me with their
observations and suggestions.
Stories about incidents in which people were turned
off to science will be helpful. I would like to talk with
junior-high and senior-high students who are sensitive and
articulate, and might in confidence share their insights
into what they see blocking dialogue between them and
scientifically trained people they know. Science teachers
and management of high-technology industries may have
significant insights into the problem, and how we may best
facilitate more effective communication in schools and
work-places. Political leaders may also have much to
offer. I seek all kinds of input.
The heart of the problem may lie in the scientists'
values---which are not appropriate to all situations. Non-
scientific values are appropriate in personal
relationships---yet scientists tend to be dominated by
their professional values even in personal relationships.
We need some values clarification so we can recognize what
the scientists' value are, and where their values are not
appropriate. Values clarification will facilitate
dialogue, and so will facilitate wiser uses of science and
technology.
Sincerely yours,
Paul A. Smith
(c) 2005 by Paul A. Smith in
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