Why scientists must be free to speak
News release
Science Minister Kirsty Duncan emphasizes importance of scientific freedom at TED Talks
May 16, 2018, Ottawa
Scientists must be free to speak to the public about their work. We live in a world where that freedom is not always a reality. But speaking about their research, without fear of persecution, is part of scientists’ path towards making new discoveries and uncovering the truths of our world.
The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities, delivered that message on April 18, 2018, in Vancouver at TED2018: The Age of Amazement, becoming the first sitting federal Canadian minister to deliver a Global TED Talk.
During her talk, Minister Duncan shared her personal experience of being a researcher turned politician who spent her career advocating for scientific freedom to illustrate the basic need for the open flow of information between scientists and the public. The Minister’s experiences have since guided her actions in her portfolio, including ensuring federal scientists can again speak freely about their research.
The Minister’s TED Talk is now available online at ted.com. The release coincides with Science Odyssey 2018, Canada’s largest celebration of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The Government of Canada encourages all Canadians to get out and engage with the science happening in their community. A list of activities Canadians can participate in can be found at the Citizen Science Portal.
Additionally, Canadians can participate in the online conversation and show how they are enjoying science in their community with the hashtag #ScienceAroundMe.
Quotes
“It is critical that our scientists are not muzzled—free to undertake their work, free to collaborate with other scientists, and free to speak to the media and the public. We want to send a message: you do not mess with something so precious as freedom in science.”
– The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities
Quick facts
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TED is a non-profit devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short, powerful talks (18 minutes or less). Talks cover almost all topics—from science to business to global issues—in more than 100 languages.
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Powered by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, Science Odyssey demonstrates how discoveries and innovations shape our daily lives and foster a strong science culture in Canada.
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Canadians can view a list of suggestions for science activities on the Government of Canada’s Citizen Science Portal. The Government of Canada encourages all Canadians to get involved in science in their community.
Associated links
Contacts
Follow the department on Twitter: @ISED_CA
Ann Marie Paquet
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Science
613-404-2733
Ann-marie.paquet@canada.ca
Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
343-291-1777
ic.mediarelations-mediasrelations.ic@canada.ca
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