Graduate Speaker Jiang He | Harvard Commencement 2016 | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Despite the advancements in scientific knowledge, many underdeveloped regions still lack access to life-saving information and resources, highlighting the need for equal distribution of knowledge.

Key Insights

• 😒 Lack of medical resources in rural areas can lead to the use of ineffective and even harmful folk remedies for ailments.
• 🖤 Poverty, illness, and lack of resources hinder access to life-saving information, preventing underdeveloped regions from benefiting from scientific advancements.
• ✊ Researchers have the power and responsibility to communicate their knowledge to those in need, bridging the gap and empowering communities.

Transcript

graduate English address the spiders bite candidate for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy jong her when I was in Middle School a poisonous spider beat my right hand I ran to my mom for help but instead of taking me to a doctor my mom set my hand on fire after rubbing my hand with several layers of cotton then sulking a young wine she put a chopsti... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: Why did the speaker's mother use fire to treat the spider bite?

The speaker's rural Chinese village lacked access to modern medical resources, and the folk remedy of using fire was believed to counteract the proteins in the spider's venom. Despite being risky and painful, it was the only option available.

Q: How does the unequal distribution of scientific knowledge affect underdeveloped regions?

Underdeveloped regions lack access to life-saving knowledge, leading to higher rates of poverty, illness, and mortality. Diseases like malaria, malnutrition, and lack of hygiene practices continue to be a major problem due to the lack of scientific information.

Q: Why is it important for researchers to communicate their knowledge to those in need?

Researchers have the responsibility to share their knowledge with those who need it, especially in underdeveloped regions. By doing so, they can bring about positive change, improve lives, and empower communities with life-saving information.

Q: How can individuals contribute to equal distribution of scientific knowledge?

Individuals can contribute by becoming better communicators, finding creative ways to share knowledge, and advocating for equal distribution of resources. Recognizing the importance of equal access to scientific knowledge is crucial for societal development.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker shares a personal experience of their hand being burned as a folk remedy for a spider bite due to the lack of medical resources in their rural Chinese village.

• They highlight the unequal distribution of scientific knowledge worldwide, with poverty, illness, and lack of resources hindering access to life-saving information.

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of researchers communicating their knowledge and society recognizing the equal distribution of knowledge as a pivotal step in human development.