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Astrophysics ‘Steeped in Systemic Racism and White Supremacy,’ Says Colorado College Science Professor

A Colorado professor believes astrophysics is steeped in systemic racism and White supremacy.

Natalie Gosnell, a professor of physics at Colorado College, wants to take an unorthodox approach to teach physics by interpreting it through the lens of race.

“Both artists and scientists are just observing things about the world, making interpretations about those observations, and then sharing their interpretation,” Gosnell told Colorado College News.

However, the astrophysicist claimed she struggled to deal with a White-male-dominated industry who don’t share the same sensibilities as she does. Therefore, Gosnell maintains the view that the potential to combine art and science is inhibited by systemic racism and White supremacy.

“As an astrophysicist, I’m a product of institutions that are steeped in systemic racism and White supremacy,” Gosnell said. “The tenants of White supremacy that show up [in physics] of individualism and exceptionalism and perfectionism… it’s either-or thinking, and there’s no subtlety, there’s no gray area. {snip}”

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{snip} Gosnell built a strong reputation in academia as an astrophysicist, receiving the prestigious Cottrell Scholar Award. {snip}

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