The goal of the conference program is to examine the mechanisms by which science is communicated to various audiences, and to consider the outcomes and consequences of this interaction. The discussions will be divided loosely into four areas.
- within the science community
- e.g. the scientific paper, mentoring of postdocs, junior faculty.
- with our students
- developments in science education.
- within the academy
- how to overcome the "Science Wars" mentality and increase interdivisional collaboration.
- with the general public
- e.g. increasing scientific literacy, the role of the media, sensationalism and accuracy.
This conference is the result of my conviction that there are critical ethical issues underlying this discussion that should be explored. Scientific knowledge is a very powerful commodity in this society and the ability to critically evaluate scientific ideas is fundamental to becoming an informed citizen. I sincerely hope that, during this conference, we will be able to define and evaluate the problems encountered in the dissemination of scientific knowledge and develop strategies for more effective communication with all of the audiences discussed above.
The conference is currently sponsored by The Christian A. Johnson Conference Fund, The Kirkland Project, The Office of the Dean of Hamilton College, The Office of the President of Hamilton College and I gratefully acknowledge the generous support of these sponsors.
I hope you will be interested in attending .
Sincerely,
Jinnie M. Garrett, Associate Professor of Biology