I’m surprised by how many people watch the Big Bang Theory without showing the slightest interest in science. I can’t help thinking it’s like watching the Muppet Show. Kids enjoy scenes with fuzzy puppets, while adults are treated to a “hidden,” more grown-up humor. Similarly, some viewers, often self-proclaimed geeks, are deeply engaged in shows set in space, like Star Trek, Stargate, Doctor Who, Babylon 5 or Red Dwarf, without the slightest understanding of scientific principles.
I’m not saying “geek” must equal “scientist.” Not at all. No need to rush off to get your Ph.D. Being a geek simply means allowing yourself to enjoy something others would categorize as niche. You may immerse yourself as deeply as you wish within your chosen area(s), without being judged by your fellow geeks. It’s liberating. Involve yourself in cos play, list your favorite episodes of Farscape, live your life by Seven of Nine’s wisdom. Call yourself a geek, a nerd, a fan-girl or a fan-boy, or…Dave. It makes no difference. That isn’t my issue at all.
I’m simply stunned that so many people who follow sci-fi shows are deprived of that extra layer of understanding. Why don’t schools tap into this wonderful pool of early fans?
My love of Star Trek was sparked in childhood, but I did not pursue physics at school. Truthfully, I thought all the Trekkie science was made up, so there was no connect between physics and Star Trek for me. My later studies in the field were never brought to a satisfying conclusion (i.e. after completing more than two thirds of my degree, I crapped out). But if I’d caught the bug earlier… If I’d understood then that many of those TV wonders are rooted in the truth…
Sure, much of physics requires a deep understanding of math, of which calculus is only the beginning. But even the layperson can educate him- or herself. There are many wonderful pop-sci (popular science) books that explain interesting phenomena without numbers and, importantly, without dumbing down.
David Bodanis’s E=MC 2 and The Electric Universe are both excellent reads. Richard Feynman’s Six Easy Pieces is an equally great starting point. If you’re after a lighter, more humorous approach, try Bill Bryson’s A Short History of Nearly Everything. Lawrence M. Krauss wrote a book called The Science of Star Trek, which is pretty self-explanatory, and John Gribbin’s In Search Of Schrodinger’s Cat offers a wonderful insight into quantum physics.
These books are not only informative, but they also entertain. They’re accessible to anyone who wishes to gain a deeper understanding of their surroundings.
Then again, The Big Bang Theory is pretty funny, whatever your background.
