Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda Carly Anne York: Taking “Silly Science” Seriously
19 snips
Jun 24, 2025 Carly Anne York, an animal behaviorist and associate professor at Lenwar Rhyne University, dives into the fascinating realm of 'silly science'. She shares how seemingly trivial studies have led to significant breakthroughs, like understanding animal behavior and innovative medical advancements. The podcast touches on the challenges of communicating science to a skeptical public while highlighting the humor found in research, including the whimsical Ig Nobel Awards. Ultimately, it showcases the surprising importance of curiosity in driving scientific discovery.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Mantis Shrimp Research Vindicated
- Research on mantis shrimp's ultra-fast punch was mocked as "shrimp fight club" by politicians.
- The scientist successfully educated Senator Flake who later supported her work.
Consequences of Political Ridicule
- Senator Proxmire's Golden Fleece Awards damaged scientists' careers by ridiculing research.
- The attacks caused lost funding and personal hardship, illustrating real consequences.
Political Threats to Science Funding
- Scientific grants are increasingly scrutinized and cut due to politically charged terms like "diversity."
- Carly's own grant for promoting equality in STEM was recently terminated.
