Susan Lindee, University of Pennsylvania
Wagner Free Institute of Science, American Philosophical Society, Chemical Heritage Foundation, Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, The College of Physicians of Philadelphia
Time: 6:00pm
Location: National Mechanics, 22 S. Third St.
Abstract: Over the last century both science and war have been transformed in tandem. Science has become more tightly linked to militarization and state power. Today, many forms of scientific research are supported with military funding sources even when the subject matter (e.g. mapping genes, tracking environmental change, or studying the brain) seems remote from any practical application on the battlefield. At the same time, military conflict has become more technically sophisticated in ways that have reshaped the battlefield experience for both soldiers and civilians. We now see remarkable levels of “asymmetrical risk,” for example, in which combatants commuting to a center in the American Southwest can guide attacks with drones at sites on the other side of the world. Scientific, high-tech warfare changes the rules of both war and science. In this discussion, Dr. Susan Lindee will raise questions about how science and war have both changed in the 20th century.
This month’s Science on Tap is presented by the APS Museum
About Science on Tap: Held in a relaxed, bar setting on the second Monday of every month, Science on Tap features a brief, informal presentation by a scientist or other expert followed by lively conversation. The goal is to promote enthusiasm for science in a fun, spirited, and accessible way, while also meeting new people.
Science on Tap is sponsored by a consortium of five Philadelphia institutions: The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, the American Philosophical Society (APS) Museum, the Chemical Heritage Foundation (CHF), the Mütter Museum of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, and the Wagner Free Institute of Science.