Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda Carly Anne York: Taking “Silly Science” Seriously
Jun 24, 2025
Carly Anne York, an animal behaviorist and associate professor at Lenwar Rhyne University, dives into the fascinating realm of 'silly science'. She shares how seemingly trivial studies have led to significant breakthroughs, like understanding animal behavior and innovative medical advancements. The podcast touches on the challenges of communicating science to a skeptical public while highlighting the humor found in research, including the whimsical Ig Nobel Awards. Ultimately, it showcases the surprising importance of curiosity in driving scientific discovery.
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Value of Silly Science
- Research often labeled as "silly science" leads to breakthroughs like GPS and Ozempic.
- Such work is crucial despite public misunderstanding and skepticism.
Facing the Silly Science Label
- Carly Ann York encountered someone calling her research "silly science" during a lunch at the zoo.
- She struggled to explain why she did the research but learned to address skepticism openly.
From Horses to Marine Biology
- Carly studied horse behavior and stress physiology during her master's degree.
- This work was her entry into animal behavior research before shifting to marine biology.