TOW #15 E.O. Wilson's Advice to Young Scientists

In this poignant, brief TED Talk, scientific historian E.O. Wilson makes use of a number of effective rhetorical tools in order to enforce his primary purpose, that scientific discovery and the pursuit of knowledge needs to be a major priority for future generations, and that our cultural perception of "scientific talent" needs to shift if we are to make the most of our opportunity.

Chief among the tactics that Wilson makes use of are a number of personal anecdotes, each centered around his own experiences pertinent to the point he is discussing. A prime example of this can be seen when he discusses the notion that cultural stereotypes surrounding nerdiness, and the myth of the "mathematically giftedness." Wilson is among the most celebrated of modern scientists, notable for a number of significant biological discoveries, and the recipient of a number of awards from Harvard and Duke Universities, yet he is quick to admit that he did not reach calculus until he was 32 years of age.

This example does much to cement what is the central message of Wilson's speech; that we have to collectively stop shunning those who have no "natural talent" in mathematical pursuits to the point where they no longer wish to pursue STEM careers.

This principle of self-exemplification can again be seen when Wilson speaks directly towards those who have no "mathematical giftedness" but maintain an active interest in STEM fields. He provides the example of a childhood fishing accident which has left him mostly blind in his right eye. He uses this example of a supposed setback to illustrate the principle that it is both necessary and crucial for humanity on a large scale, and among individuals, to preserver beyond the obstacles that hold them back from attaining their goals.