“Sharing Our Science: How to Write and Speak STEM” with Professor Brandon Brown

Sharing Our Science book reviewed on Bridging the Gaps

Science communication plays an important role in bridging the gap between researchers and the general public, fostering understanding, engagement, and appreciation for scientific explorations and advancements. In an era where science and technology shape every aspect of our lives, effective communication of research findings is more critical than ever. This is also a time where there are conflicting views about scientific work and polarizations in societies. This makes effective science communication even more important not only to ensure that scientific knowledge is accessible to all, but also to empower individuals to make informed decisions, influences policy-making, and fosters trust in the scientific community. However, effective science communication goes beyond simply disseminating information; it requires clarity, creativity, and engagement strategies tailored to diverse audiences. By employing clear language and compelling storytelling researchers can effectively communicate their findings, thereby enhancing public awareness and understanding of the profound impact that science has on society. In his recent book “Sharing Our Science: How to Write and Speak STEM” Professor Brandon Brown, a scientist-turned-writing teacher, provides a highly valuable resource for STEM practitioners aiming to effectively convey their technical work to both specialised and general audiences. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps I speak with Professor Brandon Brown; we discuss this personal, practical, and inspirational guide for scientists and technical professionals seeking to enhance their written and oral communication skills in STEM fields.

Brandon Brown is a Professor of Physics and communications specialist at the University of San Francisco. He is an excellent science communicator. He has written for publications such as Slate, Smithsonian, and Scientific American and served as Deputy Director at the Green Science Policy Institute and a Senior Writing Coach for the Strictly Speaking Group.

We begin by exploring the significance of storytelling in effective science communication, delving into diverse tools and approaches such as tension and narrative to enhance the communication of scientific concepts. We further examine the utilisation of relatable examples, including simplifying large numbers and intricate comparisons like the size of an atom relative to its nucleus, to improve clarity and facilitate comprehension. We also address the detrimental effects of disinformation on science communication, which can lead to societal polarisation and divisions. We also reflect on Professor Brandon Brown’s personal encounters, highlighting how adept communication of challenging facts can profoundly influence individuals. This has been both informative and insightful discussion.

Complement this discussion with On Public Communication of Science and Technology with Professor Bruce Lewenstein and then listen to “The Joy of Science” with Professor Jim Al-Khalili

By |February 7th, 2024|Information, Knowledge, Podcasts, Research|
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“Sentience: The Invention of Consciousness” with Professor Nicholas Humphrey

Sentience Book Reviewed on Bridging the Gaps

We experience, thus we exist. Our conscious perceptions form the foundation of our self-awareness. They play a vital role in shaping our understanding of ourselves as sentient beings: present, alive, and significant. However, what is the origin of consciousness, and how does the process of experiencing sensations and developing a sense of awareness contribute to its emergence? Is this capacity limited solely to humans? Do other animals share this ability? And what about the potential for future machines?

In his book “Sentience: The Invention of Consciousness” neuropsychologist Professor Nicholas Humphrey uncovers the evolutionary history of consciousness and argues that consciousness evolved to make us feel that life is worth living. Drawing upon his groundbreaking research on social intelligence, as well as his intriguing findings on blindsight in monkeys and profound insights into the philosophy of mind, Professor Humphrey outlines a fascinating narrative to unveil the evolutionary origins of consciousness. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps, I speak with Professor Nicholas Humphrey.

Nicholas Humphrey, Emeritus Professor of Psychology at the London School of Economics, is a theoretical psychologist, who studies the evolution of intelligence and consciousness. He was the first to demonstrate the existence of “blindsight” in monkeys. He has also studied mountain gorillas with Dian Fossey in Rwanda, and proposed the celebrated theory of the “social function of intellect,”. His research holds profound significance in exploring and unravelling the mysteries of the mind and its evolutionary underpinnings.

We start off by discussing the enigma surrounding the emergence of consciousness and the challenges encountered when attempting to understand its nature and origins. Professor Nicholas Humphrey’s book introduces the intriguing concepts of cognitive consciousness and phenomenal consciousness, which we thoroughly explore during our conversation. We then discuss in detail the concept of sentience as presented and explained in this book. We delve into the evolutionary perspective, examining why consciousness became an adaptive trait and how it evolved within living organisms. An intriguing question arises: if our early animal ancestors possessed cognitive consciousness, how did it transition into phenomenal consciousness? Could there exist an observable threshold, such as brain size, neuron count, or processing capacity, at which cognitive consciousness transforms into phenomenal consciousness? We then discuss the fascinating notion of blindsight and its relevance to the theory of consciousness presented in the book. We then delve into the complex concept of sensations, exploring how the firing of neurons and the movement of electric signals within the brain give rise to our subjective experience of consciousness. Lastly, we explore the possibility of consciousness emerging within machines, contemplating its potential evolution beyond organic life.

Complement this discussion with The Case Against Reality” and The Hard Problem of Consciousness with Professor Donald Hoffman and then listen to From Consciousness to Synthetic Consciousness: From One Unknown to Another Unknown with David Chalmers

By |July 15th, 2023|Artificial Intelligence, Neuroscience, Podcasts, Research|
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“Ending Epidemics: A History of Escape from Contagion” with Richard Conniff

Ending Epidemics on Bridging the Gaps pocast

It is difficult to imagine a not-so-distant past when deadly diseases were a routine part of life. Even more astonishing is the fact that during that time, prevailing medical beliefs attributed these diseases to harmful miasmas, bodily humors, and divine dyspepsia. However, a groundbreaking revelation occurred with the discovery of the world of microorganisms, which led to the understanding that these tiny organisms might be responsible for transmitting and spreading diseases. These pivotal discoveries and understandings paved the way for numerous measures and techniques to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases.

The history of epidemics and humanity’s progress in combating these diseases is full of captivating stories. In his new book, “Ending Epidemics: A History of Escape from Contagion,” prolific author Richard Conniff outlines how our comprehension and prevention of some of the most devastating infectious diseases have advanced, consequently doubling the average life expectancy. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps, I speak with Richard Conniff, delving into moments of inspiration and innovation, decades marked by unwavering determination, and periods of profound suffering that have spurred individuals, institutions, and governments to take action in the pursuit of public health.

Richard Conniff is a prolific author of several non-fiction books and many articles for magazines such as National Geographic, Smithsonian, and Time. He is a contributing opinion writer for the New York Times, and a former commentator on NPR’s “All Things Considered”. He has won the National Magazine Award. He has also written and presented nature programmes for National Geographic television, the Discovery channel and the BBC.

Our conversation begins with an exploration of how communities in old days grappled with epidemics, given their limited understanding of the causes behind such widespread outbreaks. We delve into the intricate ways in which communities tried to comprehend and interpret illnesses before the pivotal discoveries of microorganisms and germs. An engaging segment follows, chronicling the efforts of early pioneers who harnessed the power of microscopes to identify microorganisms believed to be responsible for various diseases.

One captivating narrative we explore revolves around the remarkable utilization of cowpox to foster immunity against smallpox—an extraordinary breakthrough in the history of medicine. However, we also address the resistance encountered by these novel ideas and concepts. We then delve into the emergence of the concept of immunity, the discovery of microorganisms, and the subsequent development of vaccines and antibiotics. Additionally, we discuss the profound realization that improved sanitary conditions are indispensable for safeguarding public health.

Naturally, our conversation turns towards the recent Covid-19 epidemic, examining humanity’s response to this global crisis. Richard offers a significant insight that despite our enhanced capabilities in dealing with epidemics, these formidable diseases persist and may pose future threats if we fail to remain vigilant to the dangers they present.

Complement this discussion with Cloud Empires: Governing State-like Digital Platforms and Regaining Control with Professor Vili Lehdonvirta and then listen to “Kendall Square and the Making of a Global Innovation Hub” with Robert Buderi

By |May 28th, 2023|Biology, Future, History, Podcasts, Research|
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