Someone Asked ‘What’s Up With Chicks And Science?’ — Neil deGrasse Tyson Answered

A foolish statement in 2005 by former Treasury Security and Harvard University President Lawrence Summers garnered much attention. Lawrence actually suggested that genetic differences may explain why there are fewer girls pursuing careers in science.

At a science conference at a later date,?Neil deGrasse Tyson?participated in a panel discussion.?A male audience member asked cheekily “what’s up with chicks and science?” Dr. Tyson was happy to respond, saying that “I’ve never been been female, but I have been black my whole life.” He pointed out that there are many similar social issues related to access to equal opportunity in a white male dominated society that affect both women and the black community.

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Dr. Tyson explained his journey into science and called it “the past of most resistance.” He explained that people attempted to block his progress at every turn and direct him into other venues — perhaps directions more appropriate for a young African-American male — such as sports or entertainment. He soundly rejected this because he 1) he freakin’ loved science, and 2) he wanted to become something that was “outside of the paradigms of expectation of the people in power.”

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In this video, Dr. Tyson totally nails it. This isn’t complicated, after all. Enjoy.

h/t Upworthy

 

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Tiffany Willis is the founder and editor-in-chief of Liberal America. An unapologetic member of the Christian Left, she has spent most of her career actively working with ?the least of these? and disadvantaged and oppressed populations. She’s passionate about their struggles. To stay on top of topics she discusses,?subscribe to her public updates on Facebook,?follow her on Twitter, or?connect with her via LinkedIn. She also has a?grossly neglected personal blog?and a?literary quotes blog that is a labor of love. Find her somewhere and join the discussion.

I had a successful career actively working with at-risk youth, people struggling with poverty and unemployment, and disadvantaged and oppressed populations. In 2011, I made the decision to pursue my dreams and become a full-time writer. Connect with me on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.