Award Address (George C. Pimentel Award in Chemical Education, sponsored by Rohm and Haas Company). Chemistry education, science literacy, and the liberal arts

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A. Truman Schwartz, schwartz@macalester.edu, Department of Chemistry, Macalester College, 1600 Grand Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55104
Millions of Americans posses little scientific knowledge and less understanding of how such knowledge is acquired, tested, and refined. Crucial issues with significant technical content are so common that some general familiarity with chemical phenomena, concepts, and methodology is essential for the health of the nation and the planet. Therefore, chemistry should be part of the intellectual currency of every educated man and woman. But beyond that, chemistry can be an enriching component of the cultural tradition represented by the liberal arts. This paper will investigate and celebrate the place of chemistry within this tradition, drawing on a career dedicated to humanizing the scientist and simonizing the humanist.