What do you, personally, think you will remember most about this interview a year from now?
I was most interested in the relationship between ignorance and wanting to know more about the future. I never thought about how, according to Firestein, “the greatest invention of science is ignorance.” I appreciate how ignorance can be a source of scientific progress, as opposed to a setback. As such, I plan to reframe my understanding of the concept in a more positive light, continuing to cultivate my curiosity and ask questions, all the while using ignorance as my compass to guide me.
How do you think any aspect of the interview will affect your own future, or society's future?
I believe that – in the future – I will approach my studies through a different, more patient and forgiving lens. As Firestein and Goodman emphasize, depending on the field of study, we may do things where we don’t know exactly what we are looking for. As an avid planner and expert to-do lister, I am often fixated on the end results, driven toward reaching a concrete set of goals; after listening to this interview, I aim to embrace the process, enjoy the present moment, and be open to where life may take me, regardless of the #uncertainties.
Wow, Nicole, this was so insightful and everyone can take a page out of your book of patience when it comes to learning.