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SUMMARY:Equations for Everyday Life - IgNobel Laureate Len Fisher
DTSTART:20090505T190000Z
DTEND:20090505T200000Z
UID:TALK18202@talks.cam.ac.uk
CONTACT:9337
DESCRIPTION:!http://www.scisoc.com/fileadmin/gfx/posters/2009_05_05_Len_Fi
 sher_small.jpg!\n\n"A decade ago I initiated what has become a rather regr
 ettable trend when I demonstrated that a simple physical equation could be
  used to understand and optimize the process of biscuit dunking. The media
  were enraptured by the idea\, though not really in tune with my intention
 \, which was to make science accessible by showing how scientists might th
 ink about a simple everyday problem. “Equations” have been on the news
  agenda ever since\, though seldom for the right reasons. Most recently\, 
 the Mail on Sunday requested an equation for purchasing designer clothing.
  One specific editorial request was that the equation should contain “lo
 ts of sigmas and other Greek symbols”!\n\nWill producing equations for a
 spects of everyday life ever be able to help us to show the public what sc
 ience is really about? Or will the “giggling Gertie” editorial approac
 h forever hold sway? Here I look at the history of equations in the media\
 , try some of them out with the help of the audience\, and draw up a balan
 ce sheet of gains and losses when it comes to their use in the communicati
 on of science."
LOCATION:Pharmacology Lecture Theatre\, Tennis Court Road (www.scisoc.com 
 for directions)
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