It is said that Phineas T. Barnum, the 19th century American showman and circus owner, once said “There is no such thing as bad publicity.” Perhaps he’s right; if so, I shouldn’t be concerned that the ideas attributed to me in yesterday’s Technician editorial were off the mark. However, my commitment to accuracy (yes, it’s one of those things we do try to teach here in CHASS) demands that I try to set the record straight.

When asked about the role that disciplines in my college might have in a forum devoted to manufacturing, I noted that a fuller understanding of manufacturing — that is, one that goes beyond answering the question “How do we do it?” to include “What are the intended and unintended consequences of advanced manufacturing for North Carolina communities?” — would add value to the forum. I also noted that scholars in the humanities and social sciences, in fact, study these very issues and can enhance a community’s ability to realize the benefits — and avoid the risks — of advanced manufacturing. When asked how manufacturing could benefit CHASS, I answered “A rising tide raises all boats,” (that is, strengthening our economy strengthens our society and its institutions, including N.C. State University).

For the record, I did not state or imply that only CEOs and the 1 percent would benefit from manufacturing. Far from it; done well, we can all benefit and avoid the social, environmental and human costs that occur when communities embrace industries without a full understanding of their risks and rewards.  My point was that the scholars and disciplines in CHASS have much to contribute to help North Carolina communities gain that fuller understanding.

So, please don’t think I was suggesting that only the 1 percent benefit from advanced manufacturing — rather, think that when we marry humanities and social sciences with scientific and technological innovation to guide advanced manufacturing, we will help the 100 percent.