The dictionary definition of science is that it is the intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment. The primary goal of science is to acquire new knowledge. Therefore, science is too important, valuable and fascinating to be left to professional scientists alone. Unfortunately, in Naga society, science is feared. We are conditioned into believing that only the brainy and studious students should opt for an academic career in science. Over time, we have come to believe that there are two sets of students, the brainy and the dull, where the former studies science and the latter studies arts. Perceptions are changing with time and it is bound to change but the sad reality is that generations of our students were made to believe that science was a subject to be feared. Of course, scientific theories and concepts are complex but that should not be the reason to let the student’s sense of wonder be overwhelmed by anxiety and fear. It is in essence dependent on our perception if we should fear science or be fascinated by it.
Science contributes significantly to the production of knowledge and thus contributes to the functioning of democracies, drives innovation and helps countries to be competitive in the global economy. Science informs public policy and personal decisions on matters like conservation, agriculture, health, transportation, communication, economics, exploration, etc. All innovations, discoveries and inventions are through science. It is almost impossible to overstate how many aspects of modern life are impacted by scientific knowledge. It allows us to develop new technologies, solve practical problems, and make informed decisions — both individually and collectively. There is a scientific explanation behind every natural phenomenon in the physical world. Thus, we can say that our society is not progressing as much as we would want because of our fear of science. We must, therefore, encourage our children to pursue science and not fear it. We must raise a generation of youngsters who – unlike their predecessors – do not fear science. Then, maybe, our society will become more progressive. Most of the issues that confront our society and stop us from progressing – like corruption, underdevelopment, backwardness, etc. can be solved with the help of science.
On the other hand, our perception of science should not be limited to the three main branches of science – physical science, earth science and life science. Science should be embraced as a way of life. We must be interested in making new observations, verify prior observations, discover laws, derive predictions, and improve our understanding of our own selves and the world around us. But where or how do we begin? For starters, we must recognize and promote our scientific community. The scientific community is the key to unlock the door to the wonderful world of science. The scientific community must be encouraged to promote science and harness scientific knowledge. Meanwhile, we must start from the grassroots. Like every village students’ body has a sports department or a literary department, they should also have a science department. Every school must have a science club. Like sports meets and music or literary competitions, there must be science exhibitions and competitions. There will be noticeable change in our society in a few years’ time if we start nurturing and promoting our scientific community today.