What is Science and Society at AGU?

Summary

This transcript showcases a discussion among members of the AGU Science and Society Section, highlighting their mission to bridge science with society through collaborative efforts. They reflect on the importance of engaging diverse communities, including artists, policymakers, and practitioners, to create solutions for global challenges like climate change. The group emphasizes the value of transdisciplinary research, fostering a broader view of who can be considered an expert, and creating spaces for all voices to contribute to the scientific dialogue. The section offers opportunities for members to engage, share, and learn from one another in a supportive, inclusive environment.

Takeaways

• 😀 **Expanding the Definition of 'Scientist'**: The Science and Society Section at AGU seeks to expand the concept of who can be a 'scientist,' emphasizing inclusivity and the involvement of diverse experts from fields such as art, policy, and social sciences.
• 😀 **The Role of Art in Science Communication**: Art is used to communicate complex scientific issues like climate change in ways that are personal and impactful, helping to make science more relatable to the public.
• 😀 **Building a Multidisciplinary Community**: The section fosters a community where scientists, artists, policy experts, and practitioners from various disciplines collaborate to solve global challenges.
• 😀 **Science in Society**: The section focuses on making science actionable and relevant to societal needs, encouraging a more holistic understanding of how science intersects with policy, social systems, and public issues.
• 😀 **Collaboration Between Scientists and Non-Scientists**: The Science and Society Section encourages interactions between geoscientists and non-scientific experts, like artists and policy makers, to drive real-world solutions.
• 😀 **Personal Growth and Professional Development**: Many members of the Science and Society Section report significant personal and professional growth through their involvement, which encourages them to think outside traditional academic silos and engage in applied, decision-making science.
• 😀 **Engaging with Policy Makers and Communities**: The section helps bridge the gap between researchers and policymakers by providing resources and support to ensure that scientific work can be effectively applied in real-world settings.
• 😀 **Promoting Science Communication Skills**: The section places a strong emphasis on improving science communication, equipping members with tools and strategies to better convey complex scientific topics to broader audiences.
• 😀 **Inclusive and Diverse Participation**: AGU's Science and Society Section is growing by including a diverse range of voices, ensuring that people with different expertise, including those outside traditional scientific roles, have a place to contribute to discussions and problem-solving.
• 😀 **Creating a Safe Space for 'Odd Ducks'**: The section provides a supportive environment where members who may feel like 'odd ducks' in their fields—due to their interdisciplinary or non-traditional approaches—can connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Q & A

What is the main goal of the Science and Society section at AGU?

The main goal of the Science and Society section at AGU is to bring together diverse perspectives and increase collaboration among scientists, practitioners, policymakers, artists, and other community members to help solve global challenges by integrating science with social, cultural, and behavioral practices.

How has the Science and Society section evolved over time?

The Science and Society section has evolved from being known as the 'Societal Impacts and Policy Sciences Focus Group' to its current form. This transformation was part of AGU's 2010 strategic plan, which emphasized making science more impactful by connecting researchers with society through broader community engagement.

What does the community-building effort at AGU aim to achieve?

The community-building effort at AGU aims to provide a platform for individuals working in various fields related to science and society, enabling them to share knowledge, avoid common mistakes, and promote engaged science practices to improve policy and societal outcomes.

Why is it important to expand the definition of who is considered a 'scientist'?

Expanding the definition of who is considered a 'scientist' is important because it acknowledges that expertise comes from many different fields, not just traditional academic research. This inclusion helps create a more holistic approach to solving complex global problems by considering insights from non-academics, practitioners, and other community members.

How does the Science and Society section integrate artists into its work?

Artists are integrated into the Science and Society section by collaborating with scientists to help communicate complex topics, such as climate change, in ways that resonate with the broader public. Artists bring emotional and personal perspectives to scientific issues, often making them more accessible and relevant to society at large.

What is the significance of the AGU Science to Action sessions mentioned in the transcript?

The AGU Science to Action sessions provide a space for diverse stakeholders, including scientists, policymakers, and community representatives, to collaborate on actionable solutions for climate change and other global issues. These sessions highlight the importance of interdisciplinary communication and the need for scientists to engage with decision-makers.

What role do social and behavioral sciences play within the Science and Society section?

Social and behavioral sciences play a critical role by offering insights into how people think, behave, and respond to scientific information. This knowledge is essential for creating effective communication strategies and understanding how to drive behavior change and policy decisions.

How does being part of the Science and Society section impact individual professional development?

Being part of the Science and Society section allows individuals to engage with a broader community of experts and practitioners, helping them develop a more well-rounded understanding of how their research fits into the larger societal context. It also fosters growth by encouraging collaboration across disciplines and providing exposure to diverse perspectives.

What is the importance of communication in the Science and Society section's work?

Communication is crucial in the Science and Society section’s work because it helps bridge the gap between scientists and the public, policymakers, and other stakeholders. Effective communication ensures that scientific findings are understood, valued, and used to inform decision-making, ultimately contributing to positive societal change.

How does the Science and Society section support AGU's broader mission?

The Science and Society section supports AGU's broader mission by encouraging the integration of scientific research with practical solutions for societal challenges. It connects a wide range of experts, fosters collaboration across disciplines, and promotes the application of scientific knowledge to real-world problems, such as climate change and disaster management.