From: "Stuart, Ralph" <Ralph.Stuart**At_Symbol_Here**KEENE.EDU>
Subject: Re: [DCHAS-L] 9 Year-Old Napa Boy Recovering After Chemistry Camp Accident
Date: Mon, 2 Jul 2018 12:48:33 +0000
Reply-To: ACS Division of Chemical Health and Safety <DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**PRINCETON.EDU>
Message-ID: 684B84A3-CE5A-4C2A-9B9D-230CAB7A011E**At_Symbol_Here**keene.edu
In-Reply-To


> >Why do folks feel that there is a perceived need to do flames and explosions in the name of "science"?
>
I have been ruminating on this question for a while and suspect it has something to do with gaining authority through magic. However, this story has led me to a new angle. After reviewing the incident, someone pointed out that a web site at
https://io9.gizmodo.com/how-to-make-a-fiery-black-snake-rise-from-the-sand-509974972
that describes this procedure leads off with:
"Ever wanted to make a glowing black snake rise up out of the sand? All you need is sand and a few kitchen ingredients ‰?? and the ability to either temporarily disable smoke detectors at home or keep a look out for the authorities in public."

I have trouble getting my head around the idea that science-like demonstrations involves avoiding safety measures and/or the authorities. I think that that caveat to the description is a sign that it isn't science that's involved.

- Ralph

Ralph Stuart, CIH, CCHO
Environmental Safety Manager
Keene State College
603 358-2859

ralph.stuart**At_Symbol_Here**keene.edu

---
For more information about the DCHAS-L e-mail list, contact the Divisional membership chair at membership**At_Symbol_Here**dchas.org
Follow us on Twitter **At_Symbol_Here**acsdchas

Previous post   |  Top of Page   |   Next post



The content of this page reflects the personal opinion(s) of the author(s) only, not the American Chemical Society, ILPI, Safety Emporium, or any other party. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. Unauthorized reproduction of these materials is prohibited. Send questions/comments about the archive to secretary@dchas.org.
The maintenance and hosting of the DCHAS-L archive is provided through the generous support of Safety Emporium.