The way of science : finding truth and meaning in a scientific worldview / Dennis R. Trumble.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Trumble, Dennis R., 1961-

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Science--Philosophy.

Science.

Truth.

Meaning (Philosophy).

Faith.

Religion and science.

Physical Description:

346 pages ; 23 cm

Place of Publication:

Amherst, New York : Prometheus Books, 2013.

Summary:

Most people appreciate science on an obvious level. Modern medicine, electric lighting, rapid transportation, and long-distance communication are among the many benefits of science that have made life today healthier and more comfortable than people in earlier eras could have imagined. Scientist Dennis R. Trumble sees a much deeper, more compelling benefit of science, one that, while less obvious, may prove to be far more important in the long run: namely, the ability to look beyond our preconceptions and see the world and ourselves in a truer light. He eloquently illustrates how scientific rationality and critical thinking are not only good for our physical but also our psychological and emotional well-being-and essential to achieving the kind of global stewardship worthy of our highest aspirations. Trumble contends that now more than ever the public at large needs an appreciation for the critical-thinking tools that science has to offer and an education in basic science literacy, noting that the methods and facts of science are accessible to everyone and that, contrary to popular belief, understanding science does not require extraordinary intelligence. He also emphasizes the many ways in which the scientific worldview offers a profound sense of wonder, connectedness, and optimism about the human condition. At a time of daunting environmental challenges and rampant misinformation, The Way of Science provides both a welcome corrective to common misperceptions about the value of science and a reason to hope for the future. Book jacket.

Contents:

Introduction: Truth and Consequences

Part I. From So Humble a Beginning : Evolution and the Scientific Process

The Dissent of Man

A Grain in the Balance

One Longsome Argument

Grasping at Straws and Coming to Grips : How Science Really Works

Part II. Science for Everyone

A Cause for Cerebration

Cannon Fodder

Like Confessing a Murder

Estranged Bedfellows

Part III. Transcending Faith

A Crisis of Faith

Faith : What is it Good For?

What God Hath Wrought

Faith, Hope, and Parity

Part IV. Life, the Universe and Everything

Framing the Big Picture

What are the Odds?

A Cause Celeste

Conclusion.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN:

9781616147556

1616147555

OCLC:

818738060