In Pursuit of Science
The Editor's Letter
by Jennifer Cooper, posted on November 2nd, 2010 in The Science Issue
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Remember when you thought we’d all have hover cars and people would get from point A to point B via tube. There was a time when it was exciting to think about the future. A time when we believed it was possible to cure diseases with a simple bacteria, travel at the speed of sound, put a man on the moon.
A time when we asked ourselves, what more can we learn?
And yet it feels as though we are in a scientifically dark time. American children are performing lower in the areas of math and science than previous generations. Funding has been cut from NASA and we have allowed science to become politicized. There seems to be a pervasive attitude among many that being smart and well researched is something that sets them apart from the mainstream and not in a good way.
What happened to Science?
The good news is that it’s not gone. It’s all around us. We’re born with an innate curiosity about the world and by nurturing that curiosity, giving it the room to experiment and seek out answers, we can help the next generation become great scientists. Plus, I have to admit, culturally, we have some pretty fun sciencey role models right now too. I mean, just look at the Mythbusters.
I have no doubt that one day Science will reclaim its moment in the spotlight. But I’m sure it wouldn’t mind if we helped it along a bit. Which brings us to this issue of Classic Play!
In Classic Play! The Science Issue, we explore the intersection of science, art and childhood by sharing some of the biology, chemistry, and astronomy lessons we’ve learned along the way. Plus, you’ll find ways you can pass on a love of science to next generation—through experiments, craft and field trips.
Science is here now. It’s time we stood up for it. Say it loud, say it proud: Long Live Science!
Jen Says:
