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Learning how science works, and gaining some familiarity with the laws that govern the natural world, brings us in touch with evidence-based reality. That’s what a good science education should give us: a respect for hard evidence rather than manufactured myth or authoritarian dogma, a desire to understand the truth behind things. Many are passionate about the environment: every young person must surely be very concerned by the evidence of global warming. It’s fine to approach such issues in an emotional way, but think how much more effective you will be as an advocate or activist if you understand photosynthesis, and why it’s better to burn hydrogen, or even methane, than coal. Knowledge is power. Science teaches you how to look for the evidence, to be a mind detective. Peter C. Doherty, University of Melbourne, May 11, 2007 |
I went to medical school in London in the 1970's - a great time and a great place. My first job I loved anatomy, I figured if surgeons fixed the anatomy then it was for me. I then saw how the medical researcher teamed up with engineers and scientists to try and provide innovative solutions for clinical problems to reduce suffering. So here I am surgeon, researcher and mum of many. My goal professionally is to strive towards scarless healing by bringing basic science to the bedside. Fiona Wood |
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Why is it important to study science? Some people are naturally curious and just want to know how things work, what we’re made of, and why things happen. You don’t need to be aware of the basic physics when you use a cell phone or a computer so, if your interests incline more to the arts or commerce, why bother with any of this? My conviction is that we all benefit from having some basic understanding of science. Without that, we’re at greater risk of living lives ruled by prejudice, deliberate misinformation, hype and gossip. Belief is fine, but belief alone that is uninformed by reason and at least a modicum of understanding can be both dangerous and, ultimately, unsatisfying.
I was a "why" kid who turned into a "why" doctor and mum. Science just may
be the answer to all those "whys". I have always been a problem solver and
you need science to be a solution finder, so science for me was a natural
way to go. 