I.I. Rabi: The Two Cultures and the Universal Culture of Science

Abstract.

I set forth and discuss I.I. Rabi’s views on the nature of science and society, focusing specifically on Rabi’s views on science and government, science and education, and science and religion. I also explore the influence of Rabi and C.P. Snow on each other. In the 1960s, Rabi set forth his mature and boldest positions, advocating science as the center of education and science as the replacement for religion. His positions culminate in science as the universal culture. I highlight Rabi not only as a scientist and public servant, but also as a public intellectual actively engaged with and connected to major issues of his time.