Science and Society essays

Science and Society essays Society's image of science and scientists as well as the public's misunderstanding and often fascination with science clearly demonstrate the influence science and society have on each other. Certain stereotypical images created by the media and instilled in the public's minds have surrounded scientists for years. These images influence the way people think about science as well as the way scientists think about themselves and others. Science has also separated itself from the general population when it comes to knowledge. The common individual knows very little about science as compared to scientists. This has a tremendous impact on the way the public views and respects science. This "gap" in understanding also influences the way scientists work and act. The film, The Man in the White Suit, directed by Alexander Mackendrick, and the book Making Science out Own: Public Images of Science 1910-1955, by Marcel LaFollette, both demonstrate the relationship between science and socie ty. In Making Science out Own: Public Images of Science 1910-1955, Marcel LaFollette addresses the image of the scientist. One characteristic in particular was the typical persistency of scientists. LaFollette describe the ideal scientist as "Mr. Persistence...a marvel of concentration, energy and endurance" (LaFollette 4). LaFollette goes on to describe scientists who would give up sleeping and eating in an effort to maximize their time in the laboratory. Scientists are "in constant conflict with the slow tempo of the world" (LaFollette 4). Sidney Stratton in The Man in the White Suit fits this description of a persistent scientist. He was dismissed form several jobs, but he did not halt his efforts to make a new and amazing fabric. At every job he had, Sidney found a way to continue his experiment. He did not let anything get in his way. Sidney "stole" money and supplies from companies that he worked for and would work for hours and hours. ...