Why does science literacy matter?
Science Literacy: Concepts, Contexts, and Consequences is a published source which refers to four rationales pertaining to the real- world significance behind science literacy. These rationales, including economic, personal, democratic, and cultural, are divided and deeper discussed below. The purpose of this discussion is to convey why science literacy matters in multiple contexts, as well as the ways in which it can be influential on the world as a whole.
The Economic Rationale
The economic rationale refers to the way in which a functioning society benefits from those who are scientifically informed. In order to live in a developed society of economic prosperity, the population must be composed of those who are scientifically and/ or mathematically knowledgable (National, A.O.S.E.A et. al, 2016). Consider the jobs, creations, and innovations that exist because of science- based knowledge. For our current context, the economic rationale, we can imagine that a significant amount of the population contributes to STEM related fields. According to the 2019 Census, nearly 10.8 million people in the United States are employed work within a STEM field (Bureau, USC., 2021). 10,800,000 people utilize their science knowledge for a job that provides them pay, and in turn, benefits society. Summarized by Science Literacy: Concepts, Contexts, and Consequences, science literacy is valuable as it "strengthens economies and economic competitiveness, leading to less unemployment and a high standard of living" (2016).
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"A nation thoroughly trained in scientific method and stirred with enthusiasm for penetrating and understanding the secrets of nature, would no doubt reap a rich material harvest of comfort and prosperity"
(National, A.O.S.E.A et. al, 2016).
The Personal Rationale
The personal rationale argues that being scientifically literate helps people "respond to issues and challenges that emerge in their personal and community contexts" (2016). Understanding science concepts helps people make informed choices, not only when it pertains to health, but also when it pertains to lifestyle choices, personal consumption habits, and environmental actions. Our source discusses that individuals are faced with a plethora of decisions and that, through scientific understanding, they can be resolved through informed choices that can lead to a greater quality of life (2016). Of course, there are professionals that are trained and educated on the specifics of how to face these decisions. However, there is no harm that can stem from an individual being aware of their own circumstances, feeling comfortable enough to ask questions and raise concerns, and have important conversations that ultimately influence their personal wellbeing.
The Democratic Rationale
Consider various issues that are publicly debated within society and government: climate change, access to clean water, energy production, waste reduction. Just to name a few, these topics often play a substantial role in the dialogue between public officials and the public itself. The democratic rationale argues that in order for democracy to function as it is intended, the public should be "informed participants in civic decision making" (2016). Background knowledge and general understanding are essential in order for informed opinions, educated discussion, and logical choices to occur centering around scientific matters. As Americans living under democratic rule, it is each individual's right to have a stance on these matters. Exercising this right begins with being informed over public affairs and topics of debate; through this educative position, proper representation can be achieved.
"Democracy functions by majority decision on major issues which, because of their complexity, require an increasing amount of background knowledge. For example, environmental and ethical issues cannot be the subject of informed debate unless young people possess certain scientific awareness. At the moment, decisions in this area are all too often based on subjective and emotional criteria, the majority lacking the general knowledge to make and informed choice. Cleary this does not mean turning everyone into a scientific expert, but enabling them to fulfill an enlightened role in making choices..."
-Report on Education from European Commission (1995)
The Cultural Rationale
The final rationale worth discussing is the cultural rationale. While it maintains a significant stance, this rationale is often not a priority of the science literacy dialogue because it is not extrinsically pertinent. The cultural rationale argues that science is a substantial component of our cultural activities, as they influence the world itself and the ways in which we interpret it (2016). While this may not mean much to the average person, scientists and those immersed in the field view this rationale in terms of how life itself is viewed. Our culture, who were are, and the things we believe and feel all stem from science. In other words, why the sky we see everyday is blue, or how the beautiful babies that we make are actually created- the significant yet under-appreciated components of every day life can all be accredited to scientific processes. Under these circumstances, proponents of this rationale feel that the entirety of our functioning culture is in the hands of science. Therefore, our views and understanding of science should be highly prioritized and respected.
The Big Picture
Now that you've read about each of the rationales, hopefully you are beginning to realize how important science literacy among the general public is under various contexts. And while you may feel that the argument for a particular rationale is stronger or more relevant than another, the purpose of examining each on an independent level is to realize how science influences individuals- personal and cultural rationale- and societies + populations as a whole - economic and democratic rationale.
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You don't need to be a science expert. You don't need to go back to school and get a degree in chemistry. But, you should feel compelled to attempt to understand science on a deeper level. The next time someone talks about global warming, maybe head onto Google and spend some time doing some research. The next time that conversation is brought up, maybe you can contribute an informed viewpoint. When you hear a public official discussing their plans on combatting global warming, you could understand what they're saying and either give them your support because you agree, or maybe you'll decide that what they're doing isn't enough. The point is, science literacy is deeper than just reciting scientific facts and data. It means being involved enough to take the time to understand and care about the matters that influence your life and the lives of others.