Dec 18, 2018
For episode 51 we welcome critically acclaimed author Sonia
Faruqi to the show. In our 40 minute discussion Faruqi goes
deep into her recent work 'The Oyster Thief' which
blends fantasy and environmental activism. It's a Sci-Fi
novel which depicts an underwater civilization of mer-people themed
amongst true ocean science, and acts of conservation living out in
a deep-sea community. Tune-In and hear her out...
Think of if this way: Many folks have found their calling in
STEM through an interest in Science Fiction - which was introduced
to them at a young age. Our interests in space travel &
Super Heroes have changed our society (and some's belief structure)
within a generation. Sonia believes that the genre of
Sci-Fi sparks interest and passion in young folks - and, this has
incubated broader interest in more sciences & maths. Getting
them interested in this stuff at a you age makes them inquisitive,
and more adoptive of science through-out their life. That's a
theory which has a great deal of merit.
Faruqi's previous work ‘Project Animal Farm’ was released
in 2015. This non-fiction work looked at the world’s food
system through chronicling a journey to 60 animal farms in 8
countries. Faruqi combines her hands-on immersive learning
with analysis on modern global agricultural models. The well
researched book comes in tow with recommendations, and food
sustainability solutions for many of these international issues.
She has some heavy hitters in food, agriculture and ocean
health singing her praises.
So, If we're going to address the many issues facing our shrinking
planet - our oceans - we'll need more great minds interested in
planetary sciences. That's a fact. Environmental Sci-Fi seems
to be an interesting strike-point to trigger more interest within
the right groups, at the right time, for all the right
reasons. Sonia Faruqi has me convinced!