Science through Narrative: Engaging Broad Audiences-An Introduction to the Symposium

Due to the politicization of science and the proliferation of misinformation about science and its significance, it has never been more crucial for scientists to clearly articulate the importance of science to the public. Despite this, many scientists often (1) do not acknowledge the importance of broader scientific communication; (2) are not familiar with tools or resources that can improve their communication of science, both among colleagues and to the general public; and (3) do not receive such training through their degree or job training programs. In this symposium, scientists who work across multiple disciplines in entertainment, communication, and narrative are brought together with entertainment and communication industry professionals practiced in interpreting and presenting complex data in thoughtful and cogent ways. Together, they offer lessons learned and provide engagement strategies for integrative and comparative biology and for science in general.