I'm Not a Scientist, but I Can Make My Own Cure

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Sometimes scientists themselves are resistant to the idea of citizen science. And that's really because, as you said, these are vast landscapes that we need information from. You just like the easiest tool for most people and if you're not also in a community where other people are doing it, it can be kind of lonely on your own. Although there is a community through a naturalist.

When you think of a scientist, do you think of a person in a lab coat? How about a teenager with a smartphone-- or even, yourself? Mary Ellen Hannibal is a science writer who argues that everyday people collecting data with simple tools like phones can make a big impact in the sciences, their lives, and their communities. She shares great tips on how to get involved with this vital, and hopefully enjoyable, work. Her book, “Citizen Scientist: Searching for Heroes and Hope in an Age of Extinction”, was named one of the best titles of 2016 by the San Francisco Chronicle. Mary Ellen’s previous work has appeared in the New York Times, Science, Anthropocene, Nautilus and many other publications. To learn more about "How to Be a Better Human," host Chris Duffy, or find footnotes and additional resources, please visit: go.ted.com/betterhuman