Natalie Angier, American author

Natalie Angier /ænˈdʒɪər/, born on February 16, 1958, in the vibrant Bronx borough of New York City, is a highly respected American nonfiction writer and a distinguished science journalist. For decades, she has been a prominent voice at The New York Times, where her insightful reporting illuminates a wide array of scientific discoveries and their implications for the public, establishing her as a significant figure in science communication.

A Distinguished Career in Science Journalism at The New York Times

As a veteran science journalist for The New York Times, Natalie Angier has carved out a unique niche, bringing the wonders and complexities of the natural world to millions of readers. Her work spans diverse scientific disciplines, often focusing on biology, evolution, and the human condition from a scientific perspective. Known for her lyrical prose, intellectual rigor, and an often-provocative wit, Angier possesses a rare ability to translate intricate scientific concepts into compelling narratives that resonate with a general audience, fostering a deeper public understanding and appreciation for science.

Awards for Excellence in Reporting and Science Communication

Natalie Angier's exceptional contributions to journalism have been recognized with several prestigious awards, underscoring her impact on both the scientific and journalistic communities.

• Pulitzer Prize for Beat Reporting (1991): This highly coveted award from Columbia University recognized Angier for her "lively and authoritative reports on a broad array of scientific topics." The Pulitzer Prize for Beat Reporting specifically honors a journalist for sustained and distinguished coverage of a particular subject or area, demonstrating Angier's consistent excellence and depth in her science reporting during that period. Her ability to consistently deliver insightful and engaging stories across various scientific fields set a high standard for her peers.
• AAAS Westinghouse Science Journalism Award (1992): Awarded by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the world's largest general scientific society and publisher of the journal Science, this accolade acknowledges outstanding science reporting for the public. Receiving this award shortly after her Pulitzer further cemented her reputation as a leading voice in science communication, highlighting her skill in translating complex scientific research into accessible and compelling narratives for a non-specialist audience.

A Vocal Advocate for Non-Theism and Secularism

Beyond her journalistic endeavors, Natalie Angier is widely recognized for her outspoken public identification as an atheist. This forthright stance distinguishes her in public discourse, as she openly articulates her non-belief and advocates for secular values.

Emperor Has No Clothes Award (2003):

In recognition of her courage and candor in publicly embracing atheism, Angier received this distinctive award from the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) in 2003. The FFRF is a national non-profit organization that works to protect the constitutional principle of separation of state and church, and to educate the public on matters relating to non-theism. The "Emperor Has No Clothes Award" is specifically bestowed upon public figures who "speak out on the 'god problem'," acknowledging those who boldly articulate their non-belief and challenge religious dogma. This award underscores Angier's commitment to intellectual honesty and her role as a prominent voice in the secular community.

Frequently Asked Questions about Natalie Angier

Who is Natalie Angier?

Natalie Angier is an American nonfiction writer and an award-winning science journalist, best known for her extensive contributions to The New York Times. She is celebrated for her ability to make complex scientific topics accessible and engaging for a general audience, and for her public identification as an atheist.

What prestigious awards has Natalie Angier received?

She was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Beat Reporting in 1991 for her extensive and authoritative science coverage, and the AAAS Westinghouse Science Journalism Award in 1992 for her outstanding contributions to public understanding of science. In 2003, she also received the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Emperor Has No Clothes Award for her outspoken atheism.

What is Natalie Angier's association with The New York Times?

Natalie Angier has served as a prominent science journalist for The New York Times for many years, where she has reported on a broad spectrum of scientific fields, particularly biology and evolution, through her distinctive and engaging writing style.

Why is Natalie Angier recognized for her atheism?

Angier is noted for her public and candid identification as an atheist, a stance recognized by the Freedom From Religion Foundation with their Emperor Has No Clothes Award in 2003. This award highlights her willingness to openly discuss her non-belief and advocate for secular perspectives, promoting intellectual honesty in public discourse.