Experimental science is fascinating, but I don't want to do it. I want other people to do it, and I'll read about it

Experimental science is fascinating, but I don't want to do it. I want other people to do it, and I'll read about it

Barbara Ehrenreich is a renowned writer and social critic known for her thought-provoking and insightful commentary on a wide range of topics, from feminism to poverty to healthcare. In her work, she often delves into the world of science and research, exploring the ways in which these fields impact society and individuals. One of the recurring themes in Ehrenreich's writing is her fascination with experimental science, and her ambivalence towards actually participating in it herself.

Experimental science is a field that has long captivated the human imagination. The idea of exploring the unknown, of pushing the boundaries of what is known and understood, is inherently exciting and alluring. For many, the prospect of conducting experiments, making groundbreaking discoveries, and contributing to the advancement of knowledge is a dream come true. However, for Ehrenreich, this dream is not one that she shares. Instead, she expresses a desire to observe and learn from the work of others, rather than actively engage in the process herself.

Ehrenreich's reluctance to participate in experimental science can be seen as a reflection of her broader skepticism towards authority and institutions. Throughout her career, she has been a vocal critic of the ways in which power dynamics shape and influence scientific research, often highlighting the ways in which biases and preconceptions can distort the results of experiments. By choosing to observe rather than participate, Ehrenreich is able to maintain a critical distance from the scientific establishment, allowing her to question and challenge its assumptions and practices.

At the same time, Ehrenreich's fascination with experimental science speaks to her deep curiosity about the world and her desire to understand the forces that shape it. By reading about the work of others, she is able to engage with complex scientific concepts and ideas, expanding her own knowledge and perspective in the process. In this way, Ehrenreich is able to harness the power of experimental science as a tool for intellectual exploration and growth, without necessarily having to be directly involved in its practice.