Ignorance, Failure, Uncertainty, and the Optimism of Science

Explore the optimistic nature of science in this thought-provoking lecture by Stuart Firestein, neuroscientist and former Chair of Columbia University's Department of Biological Sciences. Delve into the counterintuitive engines driving scientific progress: ignorance, failure, and uncertainty. Discover how embracing these elements has led to groundbreaking advancements and a deeper understanding of the universe's complexity. Learn about the shift in scientific perspective from deterministic to probabilistic thinking, and how this change opens up new possibilities and opportunities. Examine the concept of "navigable uncertainty" and its role in fostering creativity and innovation. Gain insights into the importance of questioning knowledge, embracing negative capability, and recognizing the value of pluralism in scientific endeavors. Through engaging examples and thought-provoking ideas, challenge your understanding of science's role in society and explore how adopting an "optimistical" outlook can lead to transformative discoveries and technologies.

Introduction
Other uses
Scientific optimism
The scientific revolution
Questioning Knowledge
Negative Capability
The Unknown Unknown Unknown
Failure
Failure Quotes
Defining Failure
How much failure is acceptable
How big is a failure
Key ideas
Everyday Uncertainty
Science and Uncertainty
Darwinian Evolution
Uncertainty in Science
Navigational Uncertainty
Value Pluralism
Pluralism in Science
Parable of My Dog
Three Last Thoughts
Questions
Diversity in Science