University professor of biological sciences, Dr. Brian Crother addressed the audience during Science on Tap. He taught Darwin’s “Origin of Species” and simplified it, so it would be easier to understand for those not used to the topic.
Nate Callaway/The Lion's Roar

Science on Tap was an event created to help people have a better understanding of different forms of science, from computers to evolution. Science can seem difficult and to someone not used to it, it can seem almost impossible. That is what Dr. Brian Crother, Professor of Biological Sciences at the university, attempted to help with.

“Science typically, to the public, seems unavailable,” said Crother. “You have a language all your own and if you’re not trained in it, you don’t know what anybody’s talking about. So what we’re trying to do is take that stuff, that hard language, boil it down and share it with the public.”

Science on tap was held Tuesday, Oct. 4 at Tope lá catering in Downtown Hammond. The topic for the night was Charles Darwin’s “Origin of Species.” Crother mentioned that it was something he was frequently asked about, so he thought it would be a good discussion piece for the night. Crother knew that it was a complicated subject, so in an effort to make it more simple, he even went as far as to not editorialize it, update it for modern times and discoveries and taught it how it would have been about 150 years ago when the book was originally published. He added a bit of humor to liven the mood.

“Science doesn’t have to be all serious,” said Crother.

Some students were glad to hear Crother’s description of “Origin of Species.”

“I think that Brian did a really good job,” said Zach Nikolakis, biology graduate student. “A lot of people know about Charles Darwin and his ideas, but he did a really good job of really going through and explaining it and saying, ‘No, this is what he meant and this is what it means.’ I think as far as his presentation goes, I think Brian really did a great job with letting everyone know what it all means.”

Crother encourages anyone who may not be a science major, but that is interested in the topics, to attend.

“You learn about science without having to understand the secret languages of scientists,” said Crother. “It’s completely accessible.”

Science on Tap has an event the first Tuesday of every month, the next on Nov. 1on computer coding.

Dr. Brian Crother had conversations after the lecture with those in attendance. 
Nate Callaway/The Lion's Roar