COSMOS rocked again this week. Another beautifully crafted show. Not a lot of new information but very well presented. Of interest: In discussing the speed of light and the size of the universe, he briefly addressed young-earth creationism (ie the belief that the earth was literally created 6000 years ago) and explained, politely but definitively, how it flies in the face of proper scientific thought. I really like this. US science education is consistently being undermined by small, vocal, extremely politically active and litigious special interest groups. Public schools alter curricula to appease these groups, who have no interest in teaching proper science to our children. Science is taught almost apologetically. As a result, US students receive sub-par science education and are being out-performed by the rest of the world. Very refreshing to see that the science community is beginning to fight back. On the other hand, as my perceptive son pointed out while we watched this together, these little truth bombs could be seen as self-serving ratings ploys. One could argue that it isnt be necessary to address these issues at all in a show about real science, even briefly, and that doing so only stirs up controversy, and therefore ratings. A good point I hadnt considered. While its great to see someone standing up to ignorance, Im sure the extra attention from the ensuing controversy wont hurt the Nielsons.
Posted on: Tue, 01 Apr 2014 12:43:53 +0000
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