The lesson of Covid: let's return to believing in science
The article discusses the importance of scientific discovery as the true driver of progress, especially highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The article emphasizes that we currently live in an era heavily influenced by electronic technology, yet there is a lack of understanding among the general public regarding the fundamental role of science in progress. The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted society to reflect on this crucial engine of advancement, which resides in our laboratories. According to the author, if scientific discoveries were to cease on Earth, future generations would be limited to the same technological tools we have today, signifying a stagnation in progress.
It is asserted that technological inventions are the result of scientific discoveries that frequently occur unexpectedly, indicating a higher intelligence at play beyond human understanding. This perspective was shared during a special lecture at the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, stressing that major scientific breakthroughs come without prior prediction from researchers. The author argues that this underscores the notion that the creator of the universe is more intelligent than humankind, thereby suggesting that intelligence alone is insufficient without the pursuit of scientific inquiry.
Ultimately, the author calls for a renewed belief in science, advocating that the lessons learned from COVID should inspire individuals to appreciate, support, and trust in scientific endeavors as the pathway to true societal advancement. The future of innovation and progress hinges on our commitment to continuous discovery and understanding of the natural world.