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The professional science writer has a daunting task. His or her audience will consist of all ranges in education, from elementary school kids just getting their first taste of the wonder of the natural world, to retired professors. It's not an easy job, and maybe that's why so few succeed in making a living at it. Sadly, now it's even harder, thanks to a cavalier attitude towards science fostered by certain elements in the political establishment:
Why is it that politicians who say they want to strengthen science teaching standards can sound so post-modern about science? --Carl Zimmer
If you read Discover magazine in the 90s or science articles in the Times in the lst few months, then odds are you've enjoyed the work of best selling author Carl Zimmer. Carl is a creationist alright; only in that he creates understanding. He's also universally recognized as one of the most gifted and prolific science authors in the world with a writing style that breaks down complex topics into digestible, bite sized chunks that even the beginner wonder junkie can consume with delight. So I was excited, from the perspective of both a writer and a science buff, that I had a chance to virtually sit down with Carl this week, ask him about his writing, science, and the technology behind it all.
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