Who? Neil deGrasse Tyson has sort of become a living saint for science, much in the way of the late Carl Sagan. He can speak about science in an accessible, affable manner and is capable of inspiring young boys and girls like few other scientists can.
Why? Tyson always seems like a friendly uncle or great-uncle who wants to share his passion for his work in ways that make people want to listen to him.
What resonates with me? Apart from being a notable black intellectual in America, Tyson is also a voice of reason, subtlety and wonder. His academic credentials haven’t taken away his almost child-like sense of marvel at how strange and big the universe is, and he can carry over this spirit to his audience.
Best bit? Obviously, there’s the ‘Whoa, we got a bad-ass over here’ meme, but other than that, I would venture that there is no single best bit. His entire career as a spokesperson for science is one big goodie.
Next up: Laurie Penny, British journalist and writer
Why? Tyson always seems like a friendly uncle or great-uncle who wants to share his passion for his work in ways that make people want to listen to him.
What resonates with me? Apart from being a notable black intellectual in America, Tyson is also a voice of reason, subtlety and wonder. His academic credentials haven’t taken away his almost child-like sense of marvel at how strange and big the universe is, and he can carry over this spirit to his audience.
Best bit? Obviously, there’s the ‘Whoa, we got a bad-ass over here’ meme, but other than that, I would venture that there is no single best bit. His entire career as a spokesperson for science is one big goodie.
Next up: Laurie Penny, British journalist and writer