The ‘Cafés Scientifiques’ offer a special environment for the discussion of topical and thought-provoking scientific issues in a way that is much more informal, relaxed and accessible than a public lecture. They aim at engaging a wider audience with science and the impact it has on our lives through discussions about the connections between science, technology and society. The ‘Cafés’ have become very popular and more are held each year all over the world.
The events are held in bars, cafés, bookshops or other informal environments, starting with a quick introduction by a scientist or science writer. The flow of food and drink stimulates the participation of the audience, which consists of people who have an interest in science but rarely or never have the opportunity to discuss their views on the implications of science for society.
The British Council has been adapting the concept of ‘Cafés Scientifiques’ by using new technologies and by linking different countries. In this format, the scientist gives a short talk and interacts, via video conference, with audiences of 30 to 40 people in one or two other countries simultaneously. The topics can run from Darwin to DNA, from global warming to artificial intelligence, etc.
The British Council ‘Café Scientifique’ series in Brazil aims at bringing together renowned British scientists or communicators with different Brazilian audiences.
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