Science classes, especially those with required laboratory time, were excellent opportunities to learn the scientific method. You may recall the scientific method: identify a problem, ask questions, propose a hypothesis, make a prediction, test the hypothesis by designing and conducting experiments, collect and analyze data, and then write your conclusion(s). Only with repeated, supported evidence can a hypothesis eventually be considered a theory. All takes time to complete the process. The process may even need various approaches before ever getting to a conclusion.
My participation in science classes taught me the skills needed to do good science. While I was not asking questions about Covid, the brain, or cancer and creating hypotheses and writing conclusions about such; I was learning the scientific method and understanding the time needed to accomplish the work. As a result, I have always had great respect for the scientists and institutions where scientists work. These individuals are working on those above-mentioned issues and it is a fact: they need our time and respect as they work to solutions.
A book worth reading:
I was recently reminded of this fact while reading the book: A Molecule Away from Madness, Tales of the Hijacked Brain by Sara Manning Peskin. The author, Peskin, is also an assistant professor of clinical neurology. Her book discusses how science and scientists need time to solve questions, hypotheses and unknowns. I think most of the world does not realize that this is important. The author uses the brain for all her examples on how discoveries have been made through the decades by various scientists. And yet, she also notes there are still many unknowns remaining to be solved!
Take time …
Read the book. Think about the complexity of all living things … even things as small as a virus or bacterium … often a cause for our everyday illnesses. Realize the importance of the scientific method, used by scientists, which necessitates time for results to be observed and evaluated. When truly understood, you’ll respect science and the scientists who spend decades of their life solving unknowns. I know I appreciate their work on viruses and bacterium, especially most recently. We need facts/good science so humankind maintains good health. Where do you get your information? Do your research and/or know where your information is coming from before you make your conclusion. Be well and want others to be well too. We are on this planet together and need good scientific information.
