Both democracy and capitalism depend on accurate, timely information so that individuals can make informed decisions for their families, businesses, and communities. Science is a vehicle that, while not always giving us answers that agree with our initial worldviews, seeks truthful understanding of the natural world. Science is not always perfect but is always based on the most credible knowledge at the time. While other factors (values, priorities, etc.) weigh into our decision making, failing to listen to or outright attacking experts who have spent their lives working to understand some facet of nature imperils our future by destroying inquiry, confounding dialogue, and promoting ignorance. While science has permeated almost every facet of our lives, there is little understanding of the process of or people involved in conducting science. In order to protect science from under appreciation and attacks of convenience, it is imperative that all of society understand the underpinnings of how experts design ways to collect data, craft logical arguments, and vet information within a community of colleagues. This ensures that those whose quality of life it benefits will continue to have the best knowledge available to make informed decisions.
Jason earned a B.S. in Biology and M.Ed. in Secondary Science Education from The Ohio State University and began his career as a high school science teacher where he taught for more than a decade. During that time, he established two Science Olympiad teams and served as a lead instructor on an Ohio Board of Regents grant to train teachers in Modeling Instruction. In 2010, Jason took part in a Fulbright Teacher Exchange in Mumbai, India where he witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by most of the world's population. Jason and his wife have a two-year-old daughter, enjoy hiking, and recently rehabilitated a 1908 house in the Franklin Park area. He serves on the Mayor's Green Team (Columbus) and volunteers with Franklin County's Restorative Justice Circles.
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at [ Ссылка ]
