Explaining Science to the Average Joe

[Ultima22689]

Has anyone ever found themselves in a position where they were explaining the basic idea of science to someone that otherwise wouldn't pass elementary science? It always vexes me when I get the uniform response after explaining how science works, why a scientific theory isn't the same as a theory, it's a process, not an absolute, etc. I get this intense cynical apprehension to logic in every form, questioning why the answer hasn't been found for X theory, how can we be sure the evidence is made up because the evil scientists are out to get us, etc. The crazy part is, they come seeking me for these conversations, I usually oblige reluctantly to regret doing so. Where is this anti-science mentality coming from? It's just baffling in this day and age how many people can view science as a negative.

[Asmodean]

People take for granted the cool products of science. They no longer think of them as such... That's my opinion, anyways. Be that the case, it's much easier to view science as some sinister movement creating weapons of mass destruction and wasting huge amounts of tax money on research of things you can not stick in your living room or inside your body,

[ForTheLoveOfAll]

People take for granted the cool products of science. They no longer think of them as such... That's my opinion, anyways. Be that the case, it's much easier to view science as some sinister movement creating weapons of mass destruction and wasting huge amounts of tax money on research of things you can not stick in your living room or inside your body,

Most people don't realize that the very instruments they use every day that they enjoy so much (Cars, lights, etc.) are the result of science. The religious should also appreciate that the things they are using to attack science (Computers, microphones, etc.) were the result of science.

[Newtonyd]

My roommate is just like this, doesn't believe in evolution or any of it. I try to avoid the topic with him, cause I know it's just going to lead into a frustrating conversation.

It's pretty impossible to reason with them. I've tried it from lots of angles, like reminding them that gravity is a 'theory', but they don't think that they will suddenly get thrown into space. Nothing seems to work, they just don't want to have anything you say be true, so they won't listen. All I can say is that they can't have an argument with you unless you're willing to participate. Usually.