“Science doesn’t move forward unless someone is willing to paint a target on himself.”
– Paul Martin, Emeritus Professor of Geosciences, University of Arizona
This is a wonderful quote that I found in “Back to the Future in the Caves of Kauai” by Dr. David A Burney. I found Dr. Burney’s book very interesting as I recently visited Makauwahi Cave on Kauai and the book provided greater insight on this fascinating place.
What I found even more interesting about the book, though, is the insight into the job and life of a scientist that comes to light through Dr. Burney’s descriptions of his projects. I expected to find the science interesting, and was fascinated by the scientific life even more.
Back to the quote:.
“Science doesn’t move forward unless someone is willing to paint a target on himself.”
I think this is a great lesson for aspiring scientists and I believe Science Camps of America will help young people discover that ‘no guts, no glory’ applies to discovery just as much as war or sports.
If you are ever on Kauai, visit Makauwahi Cave – it is a fascinating place. And I definitely recommend that you read Dr. Burney’s book.
Some pictures from the Makauwahi Cave Reserve:
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- African Spurred Tortoise
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- Fishhook found in 400 year old mud.
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- Native flower from fossil seed.
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- Makauwahi Sinkhole
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- It’s a cave so there must be spiders!
