This reading not only introduces the students to Mario Molina, but it also introduces the problem of ozone depletion. Molina was the first scientist to predict ozone loss due to the use of chlorofluorocarbons, and all efforts to reduce and eliminate the use of chlorofluorocarbons stem ultimately from his work. The story of his career parallels the story of the ozone-CFC issue. His involvement with the issue began early in his career, and the students should be aware of the boldness that was necessary for young scientist of unproven reputation to call on the people of the industrialized world to make significant lifestyle changes, corporations to make costly changes to their product lines, and governments to impose inconvenient regulations.

The reading may be used to raise thorny issues. Clearly the dangers of science are revealed in the ozone-CFC problem. At the same time, the work of Mario Molina as well as the other scientists in this module clearly show that science is absolutely crucial to understanding and addressing the problems created by the less-enlightened use of science and technology in times past. These issues raise the question of the responsibility of the scientist. After making a frightening discovery, Molina felt responsible to enter the public arena, actively campaigning for the regulation of CFCs. Is it proper for ideally objective scientists to become involved in politics and public policy debates? Can a scientist carry out objective research if committed to one view or another? Differing opinions abound on questions like this, and the students should be encouraged to explore their own thoughts on such issues.

Relevant National Science Education Standards

Science in Personal and Social Perspectives — The reading involves an environmental quality issue which is also a human-induced health hazard, plus the use of science in overcoming this global challenge.

History and Nature of Science — The reading clearly demonstrates science as a human endeavor.

Next: Making and Destroying Ozone

Mario J. Molina — autobiography from the Nobel e-Museum.

F. Sherwood Roland — autobiography from the Nobel e-Museum.

Mario J. Molina — Institute Professor — learn about Dr. Molina's work firsthand from his own website at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.