What If? 2: Additional Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions

Discuss the theme of Humor as a Tool to Facilitate Communication and Education in What if? 2. Citing examples from the book, critically examine the effectiveness of Munroe’s use of humor to communicate. How does it enhance (or detract from) his expertise?

How has the digital revolution of the late 20th century influenced the popular science genre? Discus the role of STEM in modern society and the importance of science literature in public education.

Consider the effectiveness of the book’s question-and-answer format versus Munroe’s blog. How does the book’s format encourage audience engagement, and what impact has his transition from blog to book had on his style?

What function do the Weird & Worrying chapters serve in What If? 2. Cite examples from the book to discuss what distinguishes these submissions from the answered questions in the numbered chapters.

Munroe writes much of What If? 2 in the second person, addressing askers or readers directly as “you.” How does style this contribute to the impact and effectiveness of Encouraging Engagement and Curiosity in Science as a theme? Discuss the wider use of the second person in online communities and the popular science genre.

How does Munroe adapt his language and style to communicate effectively with different audiences/askers? Pay particular attention to the devices and strategies used when addressing young children, as in Chapter 22.

Munroe frequently consults experts and references scientific papers in his answers. How does his use of rhetorical strategies such as direct quotes, facts, and figures, as well as evoking authorities contribute to the impact and effectiveness of the book and Munroe’s communication of themes? Cite examples from the book to illustrate.

How does Munroe’s use of illustrations contribute to his presentation of Absurdity In Imaginary and Real-World Phenomena as a theme?