Finding Direction: A Note from the Executive Director

Hi friends, 

No matter your ideological position, it is my guess that trying to make sense of the current political landscape feels like a Sisyphean task. 

The deluge of information flooding our screens and absorbing our attention, not to mention the ever-changing nature of political statements and actions, is overwhelming. Looking specifically at impacts in the science realm, we see news stories about people losing jobs, research funding being cut, scientific advice getting pushed aside, and federal laboratories and agencies experiencing tremendous shake-ups. All of this can have real implications for our society – because science provides immense social benefits and contributes to our long-term global competitiveness. And while many of these changes are happening at a rapid pace, getting caught up in litigation, or being rolled back, it’s hard to predict the short and long-term impacts, but there are some warning signs to accompany the uncertainty.  

So, in our effort to productively face the current state of affairs, the Institute believes it is important to engage in this complex situation in ways authentic to our mission. We don’t have answers, but we do know the power of thoughtful dialogue as a way to work toward solutions for society’s greatest challenges with scientific thinking, empathy, and inclusivity.   

Critical Thinking + Empathy 

An important step to making sense of the world is to think critically about it. Critical thinking can help us seek truth and foster humility. We also recognize the value of integrating critical thinking with empathy. Research shows that empathetic conversations can reduce polarization on contentious issues—a finding that should give us all hope. Empathy isn't just about being nice. It's about understanding that complex issues rarely have simple solutions. 

Critical thinking and empathy help us engage in dialogue across divides, debates, and conversations that are politicized. At the Institute, we've seen firsthand how this framework can lead to breakthroughs on seemingly intractable issues like climate and energy policy, public health approaches, and management of natural resources. We had one of our convening participants tell us, “I’ve never been able to have this conversation publicly before, because I was afraid of the fallout if I asked these types of questions.” Reminders like this show how vital it is to respect one another and engage in human-to-human interactions.  

When our sense of unity is on the decline, we have the opportunity to welcome people into a conversation rather than shutting a door. That’s why we need to put in the effort to bring people together to have difficult conversations and span boundaries. And we need to equip ourselves with proactive ways to stay engaged.   

An Invitation to Engage

This is why I'm excited to introduce The Compass Series: Navigating Our Complex State of Affairs. Over the coming weeks, we'll be dropping content in your inbox and online that explores critical topics at the intersection of science, policy, and human behavior: 

• Week 1: Bridging Divides: Polarization and Conflict  
• Week 2: Navigating Uncertainty in Science and Policy 
• Week 3: Combating Misinformation in the Information Age 
• Week 4: The Value of Scientific Research
• Week 5: Building Trust and Charting a Path Forward 

These topics aren't chosen accidentally. They reflect the core challenges we continually face in positioning science as a trusted voice in policy discussions and the role of our human nature in it all. So, as we move forward with this series, I invite you to join us with an open mind and a willingness to engage. The challenges we face require our collective wisdom and sustained effort. 

In the coming weeks, we'll provide resources, tools, and ways to engage across diverse perspectives. We'll introduce you to thoughtful people working at the forefront of these issues. Because ultimately, finding direction in complex times isn't about having all the answers. It's about asking better questions, embracing a curiosity to learn, and being willing to follow where evidence and empathy lead us. 

I hope you'll join us on this journey.  

Also, if you haven’t read our Institute Compass, you might find it helpful as we draw on lessons learned over years of engaging in meaningful dialogue. The Institute’s goal remains the same and we will continue to vigilantly uphold our values: 

"Our vision for the future is clear and ambitious. We see a world where science and policy are intertwined, fostering a society that is informed, engaged, and proactive in addressing its most pressing challenges."
 
Sincerely,

Kristan Uhlenbrock
Executive Director, Institute for Science & Policy
Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Stay tuned for weekly updates to this series where you’ll find great resources to listen to, read, and engage with.