That question has been haunting me ever since I took an introduction to microbiology course, where my professor had us wrestle with that question damn near all semester. After all, there are numerous ethical issues to contend with in the field of biology, especially in biotechnology, which attempts to apply all of humanity’s collective knowledge on biology we have, so far, to every major problem that faces the world. 

However, while the knowledge is there- and more continues to be discovered every day-, the the vast,vast, vast majority of scientists and researchers cannot explain that knowledge in a way that connects with people outside of those niche, scientific circles. Obviously, there will always be geeks and nerds to market popular science to. But how do we (as scientists) reach beyond the science freaks who have a subscription to PopSci and can’t get enough of Star Wars and Star Trek? Moreover, how do we reach people who are, at best, skeptical of science, or outright opposed to some forms of science, because they perceive it as something that conflicts with their religious or philosophical beliefs?

Well… I think scientists- not just science communicators, but actual scientists who work in and run actual labs- must humble themselves and find ways to reach across to those who are not exactly “fond” of science. 

How the hell do we do that?