Kostas Kampourakis

Kostas Kampourakis, an expert in science education and author of 'Trusting Science', joins the discussion to explore the critical need for trust in science. He delves into the public's complex relationship with vaccination, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, balancing individual liberty and collective responsibility. Kampourakis emphasizes the importance of effective science communication and educating students on uncertainty and critical thinking. He also examines the ramifications of relying on scientific expertise, underscoring the need for skepticism and informed decision-making.

In this engaging conversation, Kostas Kampourakis, an author and educator at the University of Geneva, dives into his book 'Darwin Mythology.' He argues against the glorification of individual scientists, emphasizing that Darwin's ideas were shaped by a collective effort, not mere genius. The discussion debunks popular myths about Darwin's originality, his famed Galápagos expedition, and his rigorous empirical research. Kampourakis also navigates the historical context of Darwin's work, highlighting how collaboration and societal influences informed his evolutionary theories.

Kostas Kampourakis, a science educator and author at the University of Geneva, dives into the myths surrounding genetic ancestry in his latest book. He discusses how ancestry testing can create misleading notions of identity, often conflating genetics with ethnicity. Kampourakis unpacks the social constructs of race and the flawed science behind early anthropological methods. He emphasizes that while DNA reveals connections, it doesn't define one's identity, advocating for a broader understanding of ancestry that values cultural and historical context.