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The source of many major problems in society is an overwhelming lack of science awareness. Climate change, evolution, vaccinations, homoeopathy – none of these should be creating any kind of controversy anywhere. The science on each of these issues is pretty damn clear. It is not the case that everyone need to be an expert on such things, but they ought to have a basic understanding on where the scientific community stands. This, however, is not always easy. The public doesn’t get too much info directly from scientists and this is a problem. So is where we actually do get our info, but that’s another post. Science needs a PR boost in a big way. Enter today’s hero.

Neil deGrasse Tyson not just one of the smartest people alive today, he is also one of the coolest. He gives talks, hosts tv shows, writes books, and by so doing, spreads scientific understanding to people all over the world. Most important, he does it in an inviting way, presenting science, not as something to fear or be wary of, but as something we can all revel in. Here is one of my favourite examples of bringing some cosmological perspective to people who crave it, need it, and will be better people because of it.

Neil carries on the tradition of Carl Sagan, not only in the new Cosmos series, but in making accessible a sense beauty and the transcendence only available through scientific eyes.

And for those of you who like a side of social progress with your people of unparalleled brilliance, Neil has that covered too.

There is so much super cool stuff that science can share with us, but many of us may never hear about it. We need more people who will bring the fantastic marvels of the world and the universe to the masses, particularly in way that highlights just how cool it is. How? Just watch the master in action. Watch Neil deGrasse Tyson.