Chapter 1: The Scientist as a Stereotype

Time and again, I encounter a familiar narrative device: a crisis emerges in the protagonist's world, prompting them to summon a scientist who miraculously resolves the issue with their exceptional intellect and a wealth of obscure knowledge. This scientist often appears less as a character and more as a living database, with solutions readily available.

While I appreciate a well-executed rescue narrative, I often walk away from such stories—be they in books, podcasts, films, or television—feeling a sense of disconnection. As a scientist myself (specifically an epidemiologist), I can affirm that perfection is not part of our repertoire. I don’t have every answer at my fingertips. When faced with a challenge, my approach would involve formulating hypotheses and conducting rigorous experiments and research. It’s likely that I would encounter several failures before reaching a viable conclusion, and even then, I might not be correct.

Section 1.1: The Consequences of Unrealistic Portrayals

The portrayal of scientists as flawless heroes fosters unrealistic expectations and obscures the authentic scientific method that is essential to genuine problem-solving. Solutions are not derived simply by snapping fingers or performing quick calculations.

Media that depicts science and scientists in this exaggerated manner misguides the audience, leading them to believe that breakthroughs are always instantaneous, experiments proceed without hurdles, and that research is consistently efficient. As a child, I was an avid viewer of CSI, which skewed my understanding of forensic science—an impression that was largely inaccurate. Although I eventually pursued a career in science, I faced many unfulfilled expectations along the way (a prime example being that lab work is far less thrilling than portrayed in films).

Subsection 1.1.1: Supporting Research Findings

Recent studies from the University of Washington and Columbia University explored how portrayals of science influence the academic performance of elementary students. They found that when students learned about the challenges and personal narratives behind significant scientific breakthroughs, they exhibited notable improvements in science class performance. The researchers attribute this effect to a more accurate representation of science, which illustrates that success arises from perseverance and effort, rather than superhuman intellect.

Chapter 2: A Call for Authenticity

Let’s strive to showcase scientists as real individuals facing genuine challenges. Present their hurdles prominently. Illustrate the passage of time as experiments unfold in the lab. Highlight their errors and the paths they take to correct them. Most importantly, refrain from depicting scientists as the convenient saviors of your narratives. This trope is a narrative shortcut that diminishes the quality of storytelling.

Scientists have transitioned from being perceived as villains to heroes. I hope we can strike a balance where scientists are portrayed authentically, rather than as mere caricatures.

This video, titled "Bad Plot Twists vs Good Plot Twists (Writing Advice)," provides valuable insights into crafting compelling narratives without relying on clichés.

In "How to Make Up a Convincing Story," this video delves into the elements of storytelling that can help create more believable characters and plots.