Over the past few years, while the pandemic raged on, the phrase “following the science” became part of everyday life. Science is no longer just for scientists — now we all see how much it impacts us. There is a vast amount of scientific knowledge available, and each of us has a responsibility to use it wisely and thoughtfully for the benefit of everyone.
Lord Rees has held several academic positions throughout his remarkable career and is currently Emeritus Professor of Cosmology and Astrophysics at the University of Cambridge. He has received many major honors, including the gold medal of the Royal Astronomical Society and the Heinemann Prize for Astrophysics. Some of his well-known books include “Our Cosmic Habitat” and “Just Six Numbers,” exploring the origins of the universe and of our world. Now he’s turned his attention to humanity’s future, considering whether and how science can help us survive — ideas he explores in depth in his new book, “If Science is to Save us.”
Lord Rees is speaking at the Sheldonian Theatre—a fitting venue, designed by Christopher Wren, himself a previous Astronomer Royal and founder and later president of the Royal Society, before he became famous as an architect. Wren based the theater’s design on Rome’s first-century BC open-air Theatre of Marcellus, but had to add a roof because of England’s climate. The enormous roof truss, covering a seventy-foot span, is an engineering marvel, concealed from view by a symbolic painting by Robert Streater. The artwork depicts Truth descending upon the arts and sciences, driving Ignorance from the university. The building was fully funded by Sir Gilbert Sheldon, who was also a Fellow of the Royal Society and Archbishop of Canterbury.
Since it was built, the Sheldonian Theatre has connected the arts and sciences. It’s the university’s main assembly space and has always been used for lectures. All major public ceremonies for the university are held here — it’s especially known for hosting graduation ceremonies each year. The theater has also hosted concerts; in 1773 Handel led the first performance of his third oratorio, Athalia, here. Today, local groups use it for both classical and pop concerts. In 2015, the Christchurch Dramatic Society performed Arthur Miller’s play “The Crucible” in the space. It truly is a place for the whole community.
Lord Rees offers an engaging look into his book, exploring how everyday people — everyone in the community, not only science enthusiasts but also those who love music, art, literature, or anything else — help make the world a better place. He is also honored with the Science and Innovation award, celebrating both artistic and scientific achievement. This is especially fitting in the Sheldonian, where the building’s engineering and technological marvels blend with the beauty of its painted ceiling. By day, it is a gathering place; by night, a concert hall. It’s a wonderful example of how science and art come together for humanity’s well-being and enjoyment.