Science: A Dying Art?

I took a biology O'level because I had to choose a science when I took my options at school many moons ago. I decided it was the least of the three evils of physics, chemistry and biology and it would 'do'. I also had a fear of maths and broke out in a sweat at the mere sight of an equation.

Then I started climbing big hills in Britain and that all changed. I had a need to find out how those hills got there, what was underneath them and what was above them. I breathed in the air and the explorer inside me came out and started to ask questions. Suddenly science didn't seem so bad as I was motivated by a need to 'know'.

Years later,  I have a heavy interest in geology and astroeverything and, if I had my time again, I would probably be found dangling at the edge of a volcano or maybe even trying to be one of the lucky few who are involved in space exploration.

A lot of young people these days seem to think science is for 'nerds' and not enough of them are getting interested in scientific careers. We really need this to change. 

The BBC have helped to make space related science accessible to the general public with programmes such as The Sky At Night and Stargazing. The latter being helped by presenters like Professor Brian Cox who appeals to many for his knowledge and also his...presence (sorry, Professor!)

NASA always has something going on to try and peek interest (at the moment they need help with the solar panel longerons on the International Space Station..complicated stuff but they have lots of other things going on too!) and this has been helped by a few Near Earth Objects being...well, near. At the end of 2012 there was, of course, concerns by some the world was going to end and an assumption it would be from an impact of some sort. It didn't happen, otherwise I wouldn't be writing this, but this and other recent events has brought space related sciences firmly back in the public's eye and this can only be a good thing and something to be built on and encouraged.

I heard the education authority was thinking of reducing funding for science related courses in schools in the UK, due to the costs involved. I am hoping this is a rumour.

We NEED our teenagers to take an active interest in the sciences, we need the progression. There is so much more to learn and discover, on our own beautiful planet, (in the oceans in particular) and out there in space in our solar system and beyond. We must encourage our children to want to discover and to ask questions. They are our tomorrow.

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On a bit of a sad note, I noted today the Royal Institution is putting it's building in Mayfair up for sale. 

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-21069749

You can add your voice to those trying to save it by following this link http://savetheri.wordpress.com