Comments for Morgan On Science

Comment on The Oscars and a “Science Gameshow” by Roxanne

Roxanne — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:26:18 +0000

Hi Morgan,
I have a question for you regarding the Oscars that we’re blogging about. If there was a category for best Scientific Journal at the Oscars who would win? You can answer on our blog post. http://cbt20.wordpress.com/2010/03/07/an-oscar-cagegory-for-the-best-proteomics-journal/

Comment on The Oscars and a “Science Gameshow” by Brian

Brian — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 17:35:13 +0000

From what I’ve seen of “Idol” (and I think I’ve seen about 10 minutes of it, so I’m twice as informed as you) here’s what I think make’s it popular:

1) the laughable performances
2) the underdog performer we all root for
3) the derisive but on-point judge who publicly humiliates bad contestants, but when praise is given it really resonates
4) the “good cop” judge to take the sting from the other

If there were a science Idol, it should contain variations on at least the first two elements. However, the thing that will make American Idol always more popular than Science Idol is that an excellent performance is immediately apparent to everyone, however great science isn’t always. The microbial explanation of ulcers comes to mind as a good example of this. However, it would be great TV to watch a scientist drink a vial of H. pylori.

Comment on Boring Talk Titles by Brian

Brian — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 20:20:18 +0000

I appreciate that the list gets progressively zanier. I picture a bottle of wine becoming increasingly empty as the list advances. As for my opinion, I’d give “The Birds, the bees, and the proteins: how nature mirrors itself at multiple scales” a “1″.

Comment on Boring Talk Titles by morgan

morgan — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:41:22 +0000

@Snuze
It is true – there are always those who won’t like it. When I was younger I used to be afraid of offending such folks. I tried to please everyone.

And I lost myself in the process.

Sure – there are times when it is good to be careful for “political expediency”. But on the other hand, trying to please everyone leads to being boring. Sure, nobody gets mad – but nobody gets excited, either.

I’d rather get some folks riled up mad, and some others totally excited, than just causing everyone to fall asleep.

I only wish I’d realized that (deep down) 10 years ago.

Comment on Specific aims example by morgan

morgan — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:37:30 +0000

@gdubf: The specific aims template is one of the many benefits I send to people who subscribe to my email list. You can subscribe using the box in the upper left hand corner.

Comment on Boring Talk Titles by Snuze

Snuze — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 11:20:32 +0000

OMG yes. However, there will always be some old fogey who will look at you askance for daring to jazz up science.

Loves the V8 title; interesting and thought-provoking (which is what a title should be, right?).

Comment on Specific aims example by gdubf

gdubf — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 06:27:26 +0000

Specific aims template?

Comment on Global warming as a science marketing blunder by Carmine Cifaldi

Carmine Cifaldi — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:42:48 +0000

Global Warming, (no matter WHAT is the cause), IS BENEFICIAL!
For a 31-page analysis, (in layman’s language), behind the rationale
behind that statement, please supply me with your E Mail Address!

Comment on Global warming as a science marketing blunder by Global warming as a science marketing blunder « Morgan On Science | the world cares.com

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 19:14:09 +0000

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Comment on When facilities and administration means neither by Brian Risk

Brian Risk — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:29:09 +0000

I suggest you incorporate a printer as a legal entity. Individual printing agreements can then be drawn up between the printer an each grant. Non-grant-related print jobs could fall under a “pro bono” clause in the printer’s incorporation charter.