Quick, how many astrophysicists can you name? Chances are Neil deGrasse Tyson is at the top of your list. And if this is the first that you’ve heard of Dr. Tyson, well, prepare to meet a groundbreaking scientist, compelling advocate for science funding, and a great explainer of the most complex subjects.
Dr. Tyson’s accomplishments are impressive – since completing his PhD at Columbia, he has been researcher at Princeton, written a number of books and journal articles both for scientific and popular publications, and is currently the youngest person to obtain the position the Frederick P. Rose Director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History.
But he is perhaps best known as one of America’s greatest public intellectuals. Dr. Tyson regularly appears in print, on TV, and on the Web to share his uncanny ability to make arcane scientific topics interesting to a broad audience. Below is a sampling of my favorite Neil deGrasse Tyson clips:
The Most Astounding Fact
Dr. Tyson’s answer to a question about “the most astounding fact about the universe” might just give you chills or even bring a little tear to your eye.
On 2012 Doomsday Predictions
I’m going to check with Dr. Tyson next time there’s a doomsday prediction.
On the history and future of NASA and space exploration
Dr. Tyson is a great advocate for funding for space exploration.
A story about race
Dr. Tyson tells of his decision to become a scientist.
Solving the Rubik’s Cube and a critique of the Daily Show globe logo
Dr. Tyson is also perhaps the funniest scientist you will encounter.
We have a lot of books and movies of his in our collection, as well. Stop in to your local library to check them out.
-Dan
Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh-Black History Month 