Scientists who are leaders in their fields may sometimes struggle to communicate their knowledge to others who could introduce them to a wider audience—journalists, politicians or the public at large. Nancy Baron’s book, Escape from the Ivory Tower: A Guide to Making Your Science Matter , explains how to scientists can take their research and clarify their findings in order to communicate them to the non-scientific community. Her background as a science writer and as a communication coach for scientists has made her an expert at communicating complex scientific issues in a variety of non-scientific settings.
Her primary audience is environmental scientists who may find themselves fielding calls from journalists wanting quotes for newscasts or from political staffers doing background work for their bosses. She also addresses the scientific “activist” who wants to impact policy and attitudes with their research. This is a very practical book that shows that with practice anyone can develop the skills needed to communicate their message effectively.
Although the book is focused on environmental science, its lessons would be invaluable for any academic who wants to become a better communicator to those outside their discipline.
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