Policy as a Narrative: Bri Carter

     Though Dr. Atkinson spent most of his time telling us why the Atlantic White Cedar plays a crucial role in the delicate ecosystem of the dismal swap, there was one point he made clear. In order to protect and restore the earth there has to be a constructive dialogue between science and policy. Yet, those dots can be difficult to connect. Scientists must synthesize the data in a way to make policymakers understand the facts, but without policymakers that can take the data and translate it into legislation there would be limited progress. Dr. Atkinson noted that creating a compelling narrative and telling a story, by making the facts applicable to small populations, is the best way to bridge the gap. Scientific data must resonate with the everyday person if you want them to care. Dr. Atkinson told us the story of the Atlantic White Cedar not just as a way to teach us the importance of  environmental policy, but to show the importance of how a story made us care. 


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