Enlightenment Lecture - October 2016

Speaker: Quentin Cooper

Topic: "Scientists Change the the World, Why Can't They Change Their Image?"

Introduction

• Lecture Series: Part of the Enlightenment lectures and "Our Changing World" series.
• Themes: Focus on global societal challenges including climate change, food supply, medicine, and more.
• University Role: The series is also an undergraduate course allowing interdisciplinary learning.

Quentin Cooper's Background

• Career: Broadcaster, journalist, science communicator.
• Achievements: Known for "Material World" on Radio 4, honorary doctorate from the University of Edinburgh.
• Recognition: Honorary fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Lecture Overview

• Central Question: Why can't scientists change their public image despite their world-changing contributions?
• Stereotype: Public perception often negative; scientists seen as 'mad', 'detached', or 'untrustworthy'.

Historical Perception of Scientists

• Margaret Mead's Study (1957): Analyzed children's drawings of scientists.
• Common Image: Drawings often depict scientists with lab coats, glasses, and odd features.
• Current Findings: 60 years later, perceptions have not shifted significantly.

Media and Popular Culture

• Film and TV Influence: Many portrayals of scientists as "mad" or "eccentric".
  • Examples: Dr. Frankenstein, Dr. Evil, Dr. Strangelove, and more.
• Poll Results: Top fictional scientists often non-human (e.g., Dr. Bunsen Honeydew from The Muppets).

Scientists in Reality

• Famous Scientists: Stephen Hawking's media presence illustrates both positive and stereotypical views.
• Misconceptions: Even famous figures like Einstein are often remembered inaccurately or through distorted images.

Addressing Stereotypes

• Positive Changes: Increased effort to present scientists as relatable figures in media.
  • Examples: "The Martian" and "Big Hero 6".
• Challenges: Misleading representations still prevail, such as "mad scientist" toys and costumes.

Efforts to Change Perceptions

• Science Communication: Encouraging scientists to engage publicly and communicate effectively.
• Initiatives:
  • Café Scientifique: Informal public discussions with scientists.
  • FameLab: Global competition for science communication.
  • "I'm a Scientist, Get Me Out of Here": Interactive science communication program.

Final Thoughts

• Role of Science in Society: Need to reduce the gap between scientists and the public.
• Importance of Dialogue: Engaging with controversial topics openly can change misconceptions.
• Encouragement: Scientists are urged to share their multifaceted identities beyond their academic roles.

Conclusion

• Call to Action: Overcome outdated stereotypes to foster trust and interest in the scientific community.
• Hope for Change: Initiatives aim to create a more accurate and engaging image of scientists.
• Overall Message: Recognition of the potential for positive change in public perception of scientists.