By Professor Kathleen Elliott Vinson

“Just look up” was the grass-roots campaign of two astronomers in the Netflix movie, Don’t Look Up, warning everyone about a comet hurtling toward Earth that would destroy human civilization. They were stunned by society’s disbelief, complacency, self-absorption, and indifference to their warning of an impending apocalyptic danger. The movie is a satirical critique capturing our distracted society and the reaction of politicians, scientists, and the media to the present climate change crisis.

I also urge students to “just look up”— not to avoid a global disaster, but as a way to avoid disconnection, disengagement, and isolation, a current struggle that we should not ignore. Before my class begins, I often look out and grow concerned when I see a sea of students with their heads down staring at their phones or computer screen, instead of talking with a student next to them or actively listening to a conversation around them. The same scenario often plays out at the outset of a faculty meeting or an academic conference.

The theme of the movie Don’t Look Up, of an existential crisis and its effects if not dealt with, serves as a reminder that if you don’t take the time to just look up you may miss out on something plainly visible. While looking up may not seem like a game-changer, it is a simple action that allows you to take advantage of learning and teaching in-person, as opposed to remotely, when informal and organic conversations are more challenging.

Looking up is a small step towards opening yourself up to opportunities to foster a sense of community, inclusiveness, and connection. It allows you to be present in the moment and provides a chance to get in touch with your interests, values, and purpose. Further, it can help you find common ground with others, which can be especially important in this seemingly divisive time in society. Looking up takes some effort and may take you out of your comfort zone, but it also helps you feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Instead of mindlessly scrolling social media or checking your emails before class or a meeting, disrupt your daily habits, be more intentional, and “just look up!”