By Our Staff Reporter
New Delhi, Nov. 12. Sounding a note of caution, the renowned
mathematician, Sir Michael Atiyah, today said that "science
is becoming dangerous". While noting that scientists had
finally moved on from being solitary scholars to occupying center-stage
in world affairs, the celebrated winner of Field's Award said:
"We are getting to know too much. Science is all about
getting more knowledge. Change of ideas will go on till we know
we should not go ahead. But we need to use science to solve
problems."
Delivering a public lecture on "Science and Society"
at St. Stephen's College here, Sir Michael delved into various
aspects of science including its description, history, benefits,
negative aspects as well as the relation between science and
religion, the ethical problems faced by scientists and the future
of science. He is currently in India on an invitation from the
Mathematical Science Foundation if St. Stephen's College. Pointing
towards the direct and indirect consequences of the benefits
of science, |
Sir Michael cited the example of the Cuban missile
crisis in the 1960s to say how the world had been close to destruction
before and added that the current tension in West Asia and other
parts of world including India and Pakistan poses the danger
of weapons being used due to misunderstandings.
"Since
is all about gaining knowledge while technology is all about
applying scientific theories. Curiosity and application are
the two fundamental pillars on which science rests. It is important
to keep asking questions, "he told students. Citing examples
from history, Sir Michael pointed out that scientists have had
to face the warmth of either religious heads or the State whenever
they presented. facts or discoveries not conforming to popular
belief.
Speaking on the benefits of science, he said: "We now have
enough food to feed the increasing population around the world.
Improvement in medicines has led to much fewer people new daying
of diseases. The life expectancy of people around the world
has been possible because of the advance in science."
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The world famous mathematician, Sir Michael Atiyah,
had a piece of advice for all science enthusiasts this Wednesday.
Speaking on "Science and Society'. Sir Michael advised
those with interest in science and a flair for writing to wield
the pen to get the right message across.
Pointing out that by being part of the media they could help
people in understanding science better, he said taking up since
journalism was a career that students should consider seriously.
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