“I am reminded of how much citizen science can explore the edges, less constrained by scientific convention, lass afraid to look “unscientific” (149).

This line from Sharman Apt Russell’s Citizen Science, really struck me as an interesting idea. Throughout the book, Russell sort of struggles with the challenges of citizen science and how she must over come the obstacles and precedents set by traditional scientific practices.

Citizen science is less refined, and though, as Russell points out, you might be able to become an expert on any given topic in a week, this is not the reason why people practice citizen science. There isn’t necessarily an intent to become an expert on any given topic but rather an interest shared by others who might wish to observe and practice the same things. They don’t necessarily require being able to name every species of tiger beetle but it doesn’t hurt. The point of citizen science is getting people involved on a level that doesn’t require mastery of a topic but can be done in an afternoons research or weekend hike. This is what gives it the potential to be so great. The freedom that comes with public curiosity is the most powerful tool a citizen scientist has at their disposal.

And at the same time, not being a true scientist allows you to take liberties and try the unconventional.