The Bias of Science: A Conversation

Join us for a presentation and panel discussion about the history of bias in science, from the usage of “science” to justify bias during the eugenics movement, to the ongoing struggle to prevent bias in the medical field from affecting patient treatment. This program is held in conjunction with the Smithsonian exhibition, The Bias Inside Us, now on display at the Chester County History Center (CCHC.) This presentation will be held in-person at the History Center, with light refreshments and the opportunity to tour the exhibit before the event begins (doors open at 5pm for self-guided exploration of the exhibit and refreshments). We will also have a virtual attendance option. Please choose your preference at check-out.

This program will start with a 30-minute presentation by Dr. Brent Ruswick on the history of the eugenics movement both nationally and locally, including recent controversies surrounding former professors at West Chester University who were proponents of the institutionalization, or even eradication, of individuals on economic, racial, or other bases wrapped in the shroud of “science.” Trained as a historian of medicine and science (Ph.D. University of Wisconsin, 2006), Dr. Ruswick is the author of the book, “Almost Worthy: The Poor, Paupers, and the Science of Charity in America” and several historical and pedagogical articles. He also will be publishing a second book on poverty, an edited anthology called “The Cultural History of Poverty in the Age of Empire.”

The program continues with Dr. Tiffany Cooke. Dr. Cooke is the Director of Health Equity at Penn Medicine Chester County Hospital, where she leads initiatives to advance equitable care, reduce disparities, and strengthen patient-centered practices. A pediatrician with 15 years of clinical experience and more than seven years in process and quality improvement, she specializes in systems-level change, community engagement, and culturally responsive care. Dr. Cooke also holds an MBA, a Master of Urban Bioethics, and certification as a breastfeeding counselor.

Following these presentations, the presenters and audience will be guided in a discussion by Diana Gonzalez, Racial Equity & Equitable Engagement Lead at Strategy Arts. Diana is a professional advocate committed to bringing her passion for community and healing to the communities she serves.

Admission is Pay as You Wish! Your donation is greatly appreciated. All proceeds benefit the development of future programming and the preservation of the History Center and its collections. The History Center is home to over 750,000 manuscripts, 100,000 photographs, and 70,000 artifacts. Your donation helps us to preserve and share those resources. For those attending virtually: please select “Virtual Attendee” and double check that the email you enter is correct. We will email out a Zoom link the day of the presentation.  Register here for this pay-as-you-wish event.

The Bias Inside Us is a community engagement project and exhibition on the science of bias. The exhibition is organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service. Major support is provided by the Otto Bremmer Trust.