The Other Lab: Public Dialogue

By Richard Bond

“As a scientist in the 21st century I am not only expected to unravel the mysteries of the universe, but also to engage the public in dialogue.”

Dr John Warren, University of Wales, Aberystwyth, Guardian June 8, 2005.

Ah Dr Waring, this is Mrs Millington, Chairwoman of the Cockfosters Women’s Institute. We’ve all heard about your very interesting research and were wondering if you would be willing to come to one of our meetings to tell us all about it?

Of course, delighted. An important part of the job. When would be convenient?

We were wondering about next Thursday afternoon?

I’m sorry, I’ve got a mystery of the universe to unravel on Thursday, in Slough.

Oh dear, never mind. How about the Saturday. Normally Mr Simpkins gives us his weekly gardening tips on a Saturday but I’m sure he would be willing to make way for you.

Sorry again. Weekend seminar in Bucharest on ‘Where God Went Wrong’.

The following Saturday?

Fine. What exactly were you looking for?

Well, we normally allow an hour for the talk, followed by tea and biscuits.

A talk?

Yes.

Very ‘old hat’ these days, I’m afraid. This is the 21st century after all. We scientists like to engage in dialogue nowadays.

Dialogue?

Yes, a discussion perhaps. I say a few things, you tell me what you think, ask me questions, I may even ask you some. You know the sort of thing. That way I’m not just talking at you but communicating with you, you see. Otherwise it would just be some scientist giving a boring old monologue.

Oh dear.

Is that a problem?

Well it’s just that Mrs Wilkins and I like to use the time to start making the tea you see, and Mrs Hoskins usually has a bit of a nap during the talks, and once Mrs Jones starts talking you’ll never get her to stop.

Right you are Mrs Millington. Let’s stick to the boring old monologue shall we?

Thank you Dr Waring. That would be lovely. Do you have a title I could use?

How about ‘The Mystery of the Universe Revealed’?

Excellent. Will you be bringing slides?