Should We Have Scientific Heroes?
During a recent public lecture about communicating physics to children, I read one of my books — a whimsical story inspired by Schrödinger’s famous thought experiment called The Cat In The Box.
During the question time, I was asked a particular question that has stayed with me. It wasn’t one of the usual inquiries about my process or inspiration. Instead, it cut deeper, addressing the broader implications of my story and the choices I made in crafting it.
In the dimly lit and far away audience, I believe the question came from an early-career female researcher (contextually relevant!) who raised concerns about the messages we send when we use figures like Schrödinger in stories, especially given the complexities of his life and actions. Although I can’t recall her exact words, her perspective was thoughtful, personal, and deeply resonant.
In the moment, I responded in “interview mode,” instinctively framing my answer around what I do and why. But as I’ve reflected, I realize her question wasn’t just about me. It was about the collective “we” — our shared responsibility in handling historical figures and their legacies. This post is my attempt to revisit that moment, explore the role of scientific heroes, and think more deeply about the lessons we pass along through storytelling.
