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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 51 (1967)

Issue: 3. (March)

First Page: 469

Last Page: 469

Title: A.A.P.G. Public Information Committee--What It Can Do for Geology: ABSTRACT

Author(s): Oliver T. Hayward

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

The A.A.P.G. constitutes an enormous reservoir of knowledge, experience, material--and money--which can and should be used to aid in the dissemination of geological information to an interested public.

It is not now effective in that area, largely because the emphasis always has been on geologist talking to geologist--not on geologist talking to public. The budget, the interest, the organization, and the function of the A.A.P.G. emphasize this point.

Furthermore, in a world which is made by scientific knowledge and which, if it is to be destroyed, will be destroyed by misapplication of scientific knowledge, a scientifically alert populace is essential to human survival. Public information on scientific matters is, therefore, not an opportunity but an obligation--the greatest obligation.

What geologists have failed to acknowledge is that the future of the A.A.P.G.--of petroleum geology--of geology in general--rests largely with non-geologists. To the degree that geologists interest and educate the public--the ultimate decision-makers--the profession will be rewarded by public understanding and support.

Public information--public education--is an enormous task, but fortunately there is one route open to all the public--the public schools. Other routes lead to various groups of adults and children. These routes need only to be used.

The A.A.P.G. as an organization with a vast and competent membership, a wide geographic distribution, and the money to do whatever must be done has the obligation to take the lead in the area of public information in geology.

The opportunity is there--the capability is there--only the awareness is limited.

Geologists can remove that remaining limitation, for it is of their own making.

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Copyright 1997 American Association of Petroleum Geologists