«Conspiracy theories are for lazy people — people who don’t want to get down to the business at hand.»
Bill Nye reminded graduating seniors from the University of Massachusetts Lowell on Saturday, «We are all part of the problem.» Although seemingly negative, television’s famed «Science Guy» shared the words to remind the Class of 2014 they could create solutions capable of changing the world.
«If [you] go into the world ready for change, change will happen,» Nye said, being sure to emphasize how ever-evolving the world is.
In fitting fashion, Nye, executive director of The Planetary Society, spoke to the dangers of climate change, warning students we are in the throes of the most serious environmental crisis. «I believe you all can help us avoid disaster,» the mechanical engineer-turned comedian encouraged. «I am also hoping you can help us avoid another disco era.»
Nye noted the world will never run out of fossil fuels, and asked students to consider how much work didn’t get done because of the polar vortex. «What we need are new ways to provide electricity, new forms of transportation and new ways of doing business,» Nye said.
To achieve that, however, students need to remember the urgency of the situation. «There are great many claims that climate change is a hoax,» Nye argued. «Climate change is happening. … Conspiracy theories are for lazy people — people who don’t want to get down to the business at hand.»
If the Class of 2014 wants to succeed, Nye urged, «Stay calm and dismiss that argument at once. You have work to do. You have to go out there and change the world.» The key to the future, Nye added, is that instead of just doing less, like using less water, students need to learn how to do more with less.
Nye shared more comedic words of advice, as well, stating:
If you smell fresh paint, don’t walk under the ladder. Don’t wear shoes from a thumbtack factory and don’t try and smoke in the rain. In fact, don’t try and smoke at all.
The Emmy Award-winning Science Guy also warned students that if they were to get a bucket of water thrown in their face, it was crucial to untuck their shirt. Why? Because they’ll «get a lot less cold water in [their] trousers.»
He made the point to remind the graduating class, «Everyone you will ever meet knows something that you don’t. … Respect their knowledge and learn from them. It will bring out the best in all of you.»
Before receiving a standing ovation from the soon-to-be conferred crowd, Nye said, «Here’s wishing you the joy of discovery. Keep reaching. Keep seeking. Change the world.»
