A short commentary by Colin Pulham of Edinburgh university in Chemistry in Britain for March hints at the duty of chemists to explain the scientific aspects of their work to the general public, which is not otherwise in a position to appreciate its details and principles. Scientists as a group tend to think of themselves as too busy attending to their own proper concerns to explain to outsiders what exactly they are doing, in terms understandable by the lay person. This attitude of aloofness, writes Pulham, is a major factor in damaging the public image of science, and of chemistry in particular.
Since a significant fraction of public funds is spent on supporting scientific endeavours, scientists must face the fact that they are accountable to their critics and prepared to explain, so far as practicable, how taxpayers' money is being spent. Those people who carry political and financial clout, in particular, must be educated to appreciate the benefits to society of research and development in fundamental and applied science. In the lay mind, chemistry is commonly associated with environmental pollution and warfare, and less publicity is given to the benefits it promises. Moreover, science should be presented to schoolchildren in such a manner as to arouse their interest and enthusiasm, which will persuade them to study science subjects with a view to making a career which will ensure a future for chemistry and physics.
Three aspects of public understanding are presented. First comes a sound understanding of natural phenomena in terms of scientific explanations. People should be encouraged to ask questions regarding such things, without being made to feel foolish and ignorant; they should be given an understandable answer. Secondly, there is the perception of risk arising from scientific operations. If risks are not properly publicised and quantified, people will be uncertain and develop distrust of experts. Third comes the explanation of how scientific methods are pursued. Few non-scientists have any idea how chemical and physical research is carried out, and many have bizarre ideas concerning it.
In view of such considerations, chemists must acknowledge that a public understanding of science is of fundamental importance to society, and that they have a moral responsibility to promote it to the best of their ability. This obligation means that they must get away for a time from the laboratory and talk to the ill-informed public.