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What is the Cafe Scientifique? The Cafe Scientifique is a forum for the
discussion of important and interesting scientific issues that is much more
informal and accessible than a public lecture.
Who else will be there? The audience will consist of people who are
interested in science but generally never have the opportunity to discuss their views with and ask questions of someone "in the know". No scientific
knowledge will be assumed by the speakers so that everyone can participate.
What happens at a Cafe Scientifique? each event starts with a short talk
from a speaker who is usually a scientist or a writer on science. After this
there is usually a short break to allow us to refill our glasses and have a few
private discussions. This is generally followed by an hour or so of questions
and answers and general discussion. There will be opportunity for everyone to ask questions, and we welcome those which begin "This might be a stupid
question, but......" These questions are invariably not stupid and often rather
insightful.
Where and When? Cafes Scientifiques are hosted in a range of venues. Most of these are bars or cafes, but some are bookshops, theatres or community spaces.
Cafes Scientifiques are usually held on a regular basis (e.g. the last Tuesday
of the month, the second Monday of the month etc) and take place in the
evening. Check our website list for the details of a Cafe Scientifique near you.
What subjects will be discussed? Cafes Scientifiques discuss a wide range
of issues relating to science and technology. Some of the topics covered
include AIDS, the Big Bang, biodiversity, cancer, code-breaking,
consciousness, Darwinism, ecology, evolution, extreme life, foetal experience, genetically modified organisms, global warming, infertility, nanotechnology, the Public Understanding of Science movement, sports science, superconductors. All Cafes Scientifiques include suggestions from the audience in their programmes.
If you want to find out more about a particular topic, go along to your local
Cafe and suggest it to the organisers.
Do I need to buy a ticket? Cafe Scientifique is generally free and you can
just turn up on the night. However, in some venues a small entry charge is
made to cover venue costs and many Cafes pass a hat round on the night
and ask for contributions towards the speaker's travel expenses. These are
always voluntary.
Does Cafe Scientifique make a profit? Cafe Scientifique does not make a
profit from events or pay a fee to the speaker. |
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