The current national and international emergency represents a major challenge for science. Social media has seen a massive increase in the availability of information, and the pandemic has, of course, exposed us as a society, revealing our fragility or resilience. Social, climatic, sociocultural, artistic, legal and gender changes have led us to look at science from an interdisciplinary perspective. This is precisely one of the most important challenges we face as a scientific community.
We must be aware and open to scientific development from a cultural and humanistic perspective, prioritizing respect for and care for the environment, among other aspects. Science cannot be created from individuality, but through peers and community. Why do we want to do science? For ourselves? Just to improve our CV or for the good of society? All these questions may be valid, and we cannot judge the individual goals that each researcher may or may not have. My invitation is to stop focusing on ourselves and start looking at other areas.
Scientific knowledge has been responsible for great achievements in recent years, as we have seen in the development of vaccines and technological, astronomical and social progress. However, we still owe a debt to the world, and we must be able to participate in decision-making to improve our lands for the future.
For example, finding strategies to foster a change in perspective in research from a gender perspective is undoubtedly a challenge. Understanding and comprehending a qualitative and intangible phenomenon is not easy for many disciplines, and this is where the challenge lies. However, if our minds are not opened to new perspectives, it is difficult to move towards a fruitful path. We know that this is a long-term process, perhaps decades.
We have a long way to go before our sons and daughters have a more humane world, with equality and better opportunities to develop in the region they desire. Science is life and knowledge and paves the way for us as human beings to a more complete path. It is our responsibility to ensure that scientific development not only advances, but also aligns with the values of equality, sustainability and global cooperation that our context requires.
-
The content expressed in this opinion column is the sole responsibility of its author and does not necessarily reflect the editorial line or position. the counter.
