New Era for Physics Includes Outreach

Thomas Appelquist and Donald Shapero report on an encouraging undertaking. Most likely readers have been exposed to this type of advice more than once in the past two decades, though probably not in such a well-organized and thought-out fashion. I commend the Physics Survey Overview Committee for its efforts. Yet, because the article’s wisdom is addressed to the physics community, I am concerned that it is “preaching to the choir.”

I would have welcomed inclusion of a recommendation that scientists initiate a coordinated community relations effort to inform the public of the achievements cited in the article, with future achievements similarly communicated as they are realized. This effort would be underpinned by expressions of appreciation for the community’s continuing support. Informed scientists with an aptitude for public speaking would present talks on various topics to key community groups such as Lions Clubs, Rotary Clubs, chamber of commerce organizations, classrooms, and parent-teacher associations. However, without a well-designed and coordinated strategy (“remaining on message”), these talks might contain such a diversity of information as to be confusing, overwhelming, and counterproductive. The undertaking needs a champion for its implementation and sustenance. The American Physical Society may be the best candidate available to be this champion.