First hour: Understanding science's "blind spot"
Second hour: The debate over a possible NYS ban on mugshots
Can science provide absolute knowledge and understanding? Three scientists have united to say that it can not, and they go further: they write that science can suffer from a blind spot, ignoring the power and value of human experience. It's not a condemnation of science -- not at all. Rather, the scientists argue that science provides vital insight into the world as we experience it, but it does not supplant our experience, which needs to be taken into account. This controversial piece has sparked debate in the scientific community. Two of the three authors join us on Connections. Our guests:
- Adam Frank, professor of astrophysics at the University of Rochester, and author of several books, the latest being "Light of the Stars: Alien Worlds and the Fate of the Earth"
- Marcelo Gleiser, theoretical physicist at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire
Governor Andrew Cuomo has proposed banning the public disclosure of "mugshots" and "booking information" compiled by law enforcement agencies when they make arrests. The measure, included in Cuomo's 2020 executive budget, would declare that the release of a person's arrest photo or other booking information would constitute an "unwanted invasion of personal privacy." Supporters say this is long overdue; they argue that the release of "mugshots" leads to public shaming and prevents an individual from rebuilding their lives in the future. Opponents say this denies the public access to important information. Our guests debate it:
- Ron Holdraker, publisher of the Wayne County Times, which routinely publishes "mugshots"
- Jim VanBrederode, chief of the Gates Police Department
- Danielle Ponder, criminal defense attorney
- Ashley Gantt, New York statewide organizer for criminal justice reform for Just Leadership USA
