Chemists: Public Outreach Is an Essential Investment of Time, Not a Waste of It

In this chapter, we discuss the state of the public image of chemistry and some of the potential consequences of its deterioration. We explain why it is important that chemists engage the public to educate citizens about science and communicate the value of scientific research. Next, as an example of how chemists can interact with the public in a meaningful manner related to their research, we discuss the development and implementation of a multifaceted outreach program by our group at Caltech. We close with suggestions for how chemists can create their own outreach activities and how our field can encourage this work by recognizing and rewarding it