In the concluding section of the preceding post (link above), I presented 10 pieces of advice from ChatGPT aimed at enhancing the creativity of scientists (and individuals alike). However, fostering creativity among scientists addresses only one facet of the challenge. To truly reverse the trend of diminishing disruption in science, the other crucial aspect involves cultivating a greater number of rebellious scientists. As highlighted in 2019 by the distinguished physicist Carlo Rovelli, these individuals play a vital role in catalyzing revolutionary breakthroughs. Rovelli succinctly expresses, "You have to be a rebel to be a creative scientist".
When prompted for a list of seven pieces of advice to cultivate a greater number of rebellious scientists, ChatGPT provides the response below.
Emphasizing the paramount importance of the final piece of counsel, a point that I find especially noteworthy, my memory is drawn to a post dated January 7th that explored the insights of a German author and his book unraveling the complexities of navigating through failures. This pivotal topic demands increased attention within university curricula, as resilience stands as a cornerstone of entrepreneurial success, playing an indispensable role in the dynamic landscape of the contemporary knowledge economy, and holding substantial relevance in the establishment of technology-based companies. https://19-pacheco-torgal-19.blogspot.com/2024/01/a-venture-capitalist-revered-by.html
1 - Establish a culture that values and rewards risk-taking in research.
2 - Encourage conferences and symposiums that promote disconnection from mainstream ideas.
3 - Identify and celebrate scientists who challenge conventional thinking and norms.
4 - Develop awards or recognition programs for scientists who successfully challenge established norms.
5 - Establish mentorship programs that pair young researchers with experienced rebel scientists.
6 - Encourage a culture where failure is seen as a valuable learning experience rather than a detriment to one's career.
7 - Create spaces for sharing failure stories to reduce the stigma associated with unconventional approaches.
PS - In this pivotal era, the imperative for rebellious scientists has reached an unprecedented level. Prominent scientists themselves are making explicit appeals for the cultivation of this rebellious spirit: "scientists should join civil disobedience movements to fight these unprecedented crises.” https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-019-0979-y
