EDUCATIONAL
The development of personal capacities is at the basis of satisfaction and ability in taking an active role in our life and give our contribution for a better world. Science can play a key factor in this, helping appreciating the environment we live in (in a wide sense), freeing the mind from pre-concepts and developing a logical approach to events (as far as that can help...). For example, dimensional analysis can help us downsizing the importance of minor life problems, or dangers, and focussing our energies on important issues. Basics of physics can help us in increasing our "common sense", chemistry in choosing what we eat, climate in reducing our environmental impact and share available resources. This is important for youths as well for adults, especially for people that have key roles in society!
The lack of transfer of scientific knowledge is a huge loss for society, since we still live in a world dominated by a classical approach ("I do this, and that happens") while since the beginning of last century even modern physics has showed us a completely new philosophical approach. Our society has remained far back in scientific, social, ethical, moral, spiritual and cultural development, so that we can hardly cope with the speed of technological improvements. Education cannot stop at school but should lead each individual to fulfill its ***wishes***.
E&O
Educational and Outreach (E&O) is a growing part of science that intends to bring science into society. Unfortunately, only a tiny percentage of scientists are involved in the production of educational material and are able to communicate their passion and results to youth and the general public. For the reasons I briefly mention above, I am involved in educational projects for youth both in developing countries (see HUMAN) and for students in our schools and universities, and in increasing the communication between scientists and the public (e.g. through this website and the www.eurosprite.net).