Science communicator Nguyen-Kim: "We completely overestimate what rationality can achieve"

Mai Thi Nguyen-Kim, a prominent figure in German science communication, is making waves not just for her ability to explain complex topics but for her outspoken advocacy for science's role in politics. Her recent visit to Vienna, where she spoke at the 'Lange Nacht der Forschung' (Long Night of Research) at the invitation of the FWF and the Austrian Academy of Sciences, highlighted her commitment to this cause. The fact that she required personal security for the event underscores the intense scrutiny and, at times, hostility she faces for her public stance.

Nguyen-Kim, a chemist by training, has built a substantial following through television programs, social media, and popular science books. Her willingness to engage in political discourse, especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, has positioned her as a key voice for scientific enlightenment. However, this visibility has also made her a target for harsh criticism and attacks, a reality she seems to accept as part of her mission.

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We overestimate completely what rationality can achieve

While her brief flirtation with a political career turned out to be a feint, Nguyen-Kim's actions clearly demonstrate she is far from apolitical. Her lecture in Vienna focused on the challenge of making science audible amidst what she described as "all the shouting." This resonates deeply within Austria, a country that, like Germany, grapples with the influence of misinformation and the need for evidence-based policy. The unique perspective from Vienna is that while Western media might focus on her celebrity status or the controversy, Austrian and German audiences are keenly aware of the vital importance of scientific literacy and the courage it takes to champion it in a polarized environment.

Her presence, even with security, is a testament to the impact she has. It's not just about explaining science; it's about defending its place in public life and policy. This is a narrative that holds particular weight in German-speaking countries, where the legacy of historical events has made the public particularly sensitive to the role of expertise and authority in society. Nguyen-Kim's work is therefore not just educational; it's a form of civic engagement that is both admired and contested.

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how science makes itself heard between all the shouting