#7: Politics Professor: 'Science Does Not Make Us Change Our Ways of Behavior'

What stories shape the way we see the world — and what stories might help us build something better?

In this episode, I talk with Ronnie, a self-described "recovering academic" from California, about science, politics, human behavior, sustainability, and the stories we tell ourselves about what is possible. Ronnie spent decades teaching and studying politics, energy, resources, and global systems, but over time, his thinking shifted from purely rational explanations toward a deeper appreciation for worldviews, imagination, power, emotion, and local action.

This conversation does touch on politics, and Ronnie shares his viewpoint -- so skip if you so choose! But at its heart, this episode is about something much more personal and universal: how we make sense of the world, how we decide what to believe, and how we might begin moving toward a better future one small step at a time.

Ronnie reminds us that facts and science can help us understand what is happening, but they do not automatically change how we live. For that, we need stories — stories strong enough to help us imagine a different future, and practical enough to help humanity take the next step forward.

In this episode, we explore:

• Ronnie's journey from physics and nuclear research to politics, sustainability, and local action
• Why facts, logic, and data do not always explain human behavior
• The power of stories, worldviews, and imagination in shaping public life
• Why local projects can become meaningful models for broader change
• How healthy skepticism can help us listen more carefully in an age of media, AI, and uncertainty
• The challenge — and importance — of continuing to talk across differences

Reflection question:
What is one story you have been telling yourself about your life, your community, or the world — and what better future might you begin imagining instead with a more compelling story?

More about Ronnie:

Learn more about Ronnie's work on his UC Santa Cruz bio page: https://campusdirectory.ucsc.edu/cd_detail?uid=rlipsch

Call to action:

If you or someone you know has a meaningful, life-affirming story to share on Perennial Pen, email me at nate@silvermaplestrategies.com. I respond to every message personally!