FOR SCIENCE!!

I asked you guys what you wanted me to post about and the resounding response was science. You wanted to know my thoughts and opinions on the subject, so that is what this first post will be about.

- ATTENTION -
Before I get started, I just want to remind everyone that science can be a pretty touchy subject for some people. Mainly those of religious belief and devotion. That being said, I am expressing my personal opinions in this blog. If they conflict with your beliefs or offend you in any way, simply don't continue to read. Also, any negative comments and "flaming" will not be tolerated. Everyone is entitled to their own beliefs and opinions. Remember that.

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So, what is "science" exactly?

Google defines the word as:

the intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment

Essentially, science is the study of the natural world and everything that makes up our existence. Science asks the big questions.

• What?
• How?
• When?
• Why?

Scientists question everything. They are constantly seeking answers and explanations. It is this mindset, that has brought about the growth and technological advancement of humanity. As a species, we have advanced further than any other creature to walk this planet. As human beings, in the grand scheme of things, we should NOT be at the top of the food chain. Compared to some of the other creatures that currently roam the Earth, we are weak and frail. The ONLY reason that we have advanced to become the dominant species on the planet, is because of our minds. We have the largest brain capacity of any species before us and any species currently alive today.

We are able to think freely and rather than accept our environment for what it is, we question it. We adapt to it. Rather than let nature control us, we control nature. It is often said that there is ONE trait that sets us, as human beings, apart from the rest of the species on this planet.

Curiosity.

Without our constant thirst for knowledge and answers, humanity would not be at the dominant level that it is at today. That being said, it is my personal belief that science is what is going to carry us well into the future. Science is the one thing that unites us as a species. Despite all of our differences in this world, despite all the conflict, and despite all the language barriers...science is what can unify us. The one language that every human being understands, is mathematics. An integral part of science.

As a species, we need to grow up, wake up, and stand up together. All the fighting that we inflict upon ourselves does nothing to move us forward. If we are to expand our knowledge and continue to grow...we need to focus on science and technology. Not for war, but for unity. Imagine if all of the trillions of dollars spent on military research, were spent on finding cures for diseases...renewable fuel sources...or space exploration. Imagine how much of a better world it would be.

There is a quote from the 2008 movie "The Day the Earth Stood Still" by the character Professor Barnhardt, that I'd like to leave you with to think about.

"Well that's where we are. You say we're on the brink of destruction and you're right. But it's only on the brink that people find the will to change. Only at the precipice do we evolve. This is our moment. Don't take it from us, we are close to an answer."