Social Science Attendees Felt the Love

The Discovery created its Social Science event series in 2012 as part of the museum’s efforts to serve visitors or every age with exciting ways to explore science. To kick off 2018, the popular adults-only series examined the science of attraction, sex, and love on Saturday, February 10th.

At Social Science: Attraction, more than 300 attendees explored The Discovery’s exhibits while participating in activities like “Sperm Racing,” where they donned sperm helmets and raced through a course, avoiding various contraceptives, to see who could reach a foam “egg” first. And at the “Selfie Booth,” attendees picked up tips on how to take the most attractive selfies for dating apps like Tinder.

In Art Alcove, The Discovery’s artist space, attendees had fun crafting their own DIY Valentines. And laughs echoed throughout The Discovery as people read the absurd sex myths and misconceptions written on the “Sex Talkback Board.” Attendees got creative and wrote ridiculous myths about sex that they recall from childhood, including, “You can get pregnant just by holding hands,” “You can get an STD from a toilet seat,” and “The men want it, pursue it, and the women acquiesce.”

The event also hosted an array of special guests. Northern Nevada HOPES, a local non-profit community health center dedicated to providing accessible healthcare, engaged visitors in a workshop that put a fun twist on traditional sex education. Northern Nevada HOPES also held an active session on the spectrum of sexual orientation, gender identities, and the ways people engage in sexuality. Meanwhile, Tantus, a Sparks-based sexual health product manufacturer, discussed consent and dirty talk with museum visitors. To round off all the fun, Whole Foods provided sweet and savory bites, while Bibo Coffee Company served up steamy coffee samples.

The Discovery’s popular Social Science series appeals to adults because it gives them the opportunity to explore the museum without kids—an entirely different experience. With Social Science themes like “Attraction,” The Discovery will continue to develop programming that engages adults in fun, hands-on science exploration and demonstrations.

The next Social Science event will take place on April 14th. Mark your calendars and stay tuned to our calendar of events for more details.

The Discovery’s Social Science series is presented by LP Insurance Services with support from Whole Foods Market Reno and the Reno News & Review.