Knowledge in Science and the Arts

In this chapter, we examine our knowledge sources and the ocean reminds us that we each have both a brain and a heart. Humans have many different knowledge sources and ways of thinking. One way humans process life situations is through slow, analytical, calculative, and rational thinking, i.e., the types of knowledge available in science and technology with their strengths to solve various kinds of technical problems. The other way of thinking is fast, intuitive, poetic or metaphoric, emotional, and may even involve dreams that communicate with us through images, i.e., the types of knowledge available in the arts. Connecting science and the arts is crucial, as black-and-white, atomistic thinking can be extremely destructive. The chapter highlights the importance of broad, respectful thinking and communication, and of realizing that science needs the arts in order to understand humanity and fully appreciate the ocean.