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Free online lectures: Explore a world of ideas

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Science for the Public

Science for the Public is a grassroots nonprofit organization committed to the promotion of adult science literacy. The organization hosts public presentations by scientists at Boston Public Library, a community science TV series, and online science resources. Citizen participation is actively encouraged in the development of our programs and resources. Today, many of the most pressing issues of modern life require the expertise of scientists. Citizens must therefore have a reasonable understanding of science in order to function as responsible members of society. Further, as the pace of scientific discovery accelerates, modern citizens must be able to grasp new concepts and information that are reshaping our perspectives. Although the issue of science literacy is now being addressed at the K-12 level, there is no science curriculum for the adult population. And it is the adult population that votes, pays taxes and raises children.

http://www.scienceforthepublic.org/

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    Human Earth

    Thu, Dec 9, 2021
    Back in August (2021) we talked with Andrew Knoll about the development and forces of our planet based on his recent book, of A Brief History of Earth: Four Billion Years in Eight Chapters. We ran out of time and couldn’t discuss the last –and very important—chapter, “Human Planet” –the story of the Anthropocene. Dr. Knoll very kindly agreed to discuss this topic separately and in this program we take up the Anthropocene and how the November COP26 international meeting underscores the human impact on our planet.
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    Science for the Public
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    Formation and Diversity of Planetary Systems

    Mon, Nov 8, 2021
    The sophistication of modern telescopes and advances in data collection combine to make planetary systems one of the most exciting areas of astronomy. Dr. Najita explains how astronomers today investigate the formation and structure of planetary systems, and especially the great diversity of these systems. She also describes the role of citizen science in this ongoing discovery.
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    Science for the Public

  • The Menace of Agrochemicals

    Mon, Oct 18, 2021
    Sheldon Krimsky, distinguished professor, popular author and public advocate, discusses the environmental and health issues of agrochemicals, especially glyphosate (Roundup). He also explains the related issues of GMOs.
    Forum Network
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    Science for the Public

  • The Real Key to Feeding the World

    Mon, Sep 20, 2021
    Industrial agriculture –“Big Ag”– destroys soil on a massive scale and is a major source of atmospheric CO2, environmental toxins, and ecosystem collapse. Contrary to corporate claims, it is not the best or only way to feed the world. David Montgomery discusses the numerous myths of industrial agriculture and explains how farmers around the world are restoring, through regenerative agriculture, soil and environments, and harvesting much healthier food. In addition, restorative methods are the best form of carbon capture, which is essential for dealing with global warming.
    Forum Network
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    Science for the Public
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    Galileo & the Science Deniers

    Tue, Sep 14, 2021
    Dr. Livio discusses his newest book Galileo and the Science Deniers (2020), a timely account of Galileo's struggle for recognition that the planets orbit the Sun. His proof conflicted with Church’s Aristotelian doctrine, which maintained that the Earth was the center of the universe. Galileo was condemned and severely punished by the Inquisition. Dr. Livio considers the similarity between the resistance to scientific facts in Galileo’s era and anti-science today --a very timely discussion.
    Forum Network
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    Science for the Public
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    A Brief History of Earth: Four Billion Years in Eight Chapters

    Mon, Aug 23, 2021
    Today, an understanding of how our planet works is necessary for everyone concerned about the plight of Earth. Professor Knoll has been a leader in demonstrating the interconnections between Earth’s geological, chemical, biological processes and history. He discusses these interrelationships in his new book, A Brief History of Earth. He also addresses the distinction between historical natural changes and current catastrophes that are due to human actions.
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    Science for the Public
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    Carbon Capture & Conversion

    Mon, Jul 19, 2021
    Even if we could switch today to entirely renewable energy, it will be necessary to remove trillions of tons of CO2 from the atmosphere. Of the various methods being developed, the carbon capture and conversion system Dr. Khan and his colleagues have devised is of particular interest. This capture and conversion system has a more efficient CO2 capture mechanism and the system can produce useful products.
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    Science for the Public
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    Beyond the Standard Model? The Latest from Fermilab

    Mon, Jun 7, 2021
    There are many unknowns about the structure of the universe. Researchers in the field of particle physics have long anticipated new discoveries that will lead to “new” physics – beyond the Standard Model. In April 2021, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab), announced exciting first results from the Fermilab’s Muon g-2 experiment. Fundamental particles called muons behaved in a way not predicted by the Standard Model of particle physics. If confirmed, the results are expected to reveal some of the biggest questions about the universe.
    Forum Network
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    Science for the Public
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    Can Seagrasses Weather Ocean Warming?

    Mon, Jun 14, 2021
    Dr. Daru discusses the vital importance of seagrasses in maintaining the health of the oceans: how seagrasses sustain marine life, stabilize shorelines, and reduce ocean acidification. He explains the impact of rising ocean temperature on seagrasses and the concern about how well seagrasses can adapt to the increasing ocean heat. Image: Belmont Media Center
    Forum Network
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    Science for the Public
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    Living Dirt: Soil’s Microbe Ecosystems

    Mon, May 10, 2021
    Concern about environment and climate change has increased interest in the fundamental importance of soil. Dr. DeAngelis describes the microbes that preserve soil health, the complex interdependence of these microbial ecosystems and the larger environment, and how healthy soil contributes to healthy climate.
    Forum Network
    Partner:
    Science for the Public
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