August 23, 2013

A Chat with Biologist Edward O. Wilson on SciAm’s 168th Anniversary

Join Our Community of Science Lovers!

This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American

I am very pleased to announce that the SciAm community will be graced by the presence of one of the most well-known naturalists, Edward O. Wilson, an eminent biologist, researcher, and theorist who is the world's leading authority on ants. He is the recipient of two Pulitzer Prizes for his thoughtful and insightful writings. If you haven't picked up any of his books, it is certainly not too late to start! Join us at noon EDT today (August 27) below.

The hangout discussion will focus on Dr. Wilson's latest book, "Letters to a Young Scientist," where he offers advice to those choosing a career in science about finding a place that resonates with your passions and abilities. We will also converse with him about strategies for communicating science to the general public, which he does so adeptly.

On supporting science journalism

If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.

Enjoy a preview of his book, as told by him in this TED talk.

This event is a collaboration between the Read Science! Google Hangout on Air Program and Scientific American. My co-host, Jeff Shaumeyer and I will be your hosts.

The hangout coincides (minus one day) with the 168th anniversary of Scientific American's first issue. Join us Tuesday, August 27th, at noon EDT for 30 minutes. You can watch the livestream here.

All of this would not be possible without some help behind the scenes and I'd like to acknowledge the assistance of Charlie Schick (@molecularist on twitter), whom I met in person at an iGEM international synthetic biology competition at MIT. He is taking time out of his day to drive to Dr. Wilson's house and assist in setting up for our Google Hangout on Air! Frankly, as thrilled as I am to be speaking with Dr. Wilson via new technology, I think Charlie is the most fortunate of us all, to be sitting in his presence, if only for a few hours.

Since we all can't be Charlie, please join us for the next best thing!

It’s Time to Stand Up for Science

If you enjoyed this article, I’d like to ask for your support. Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history.

I’ve been a Scientific American subscriber since I was 12 years old, and it helped shape the way I look at the world. SciAm always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does that for you, too.

If you subscribe to Scientific American, you help ensure that our coverage is centered on meaningful research and discovery; that we have the resources to report on the decisions that threaten labs across the U.S.; and that we support both budding and working scientists at a time when the value of science itself too often goes unrecognized.

In return, you get essential news, captivating podcasts, brilliant infographics, can't-miss newsletters, must-watch videos, challenging games, and the science world's best writing and reporting. You can even gift someone a subscription.

There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you’ll support us in that mission.

Thank you,

David M. Ewalt, Editor in Chief, Scientific American