What science is and how it really works / James C. Zimring (University of Virginia, Charlottesville).

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Zimring, James C., 1970- author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Science--Methodology.

Science.

Reasoning.

Physical Description:

xi, 394 pages : illustrations (black and white) ; 23 cm

Place of Publication:

Cambridge ; New York, NY : Cambridge University Press, 2019.

Summary:

Scientific advances have transformed the world. However, science can sometimes get things wrong, and at times, disastrously so. Understanding the basis for scientific claims and judging how much confidence we should place in them is essential for individual choice, societal debates, and development of public policy and laws. We must ask: what is the basis of scientific claims? How much confidence should we put in them? What is defined as science and what is not? This book synthesizes a working definition of science and its properties, as explained through the eyes of a practicing scientist, by integrating advances from philosophy, psychology, history, sociology, and anthropology into a holistic view. Crucial in our political climate, the book fights the myths of science often portrayed to the public. Written for a general audience, it also enables students to better grasp methodologies and helps professional scientists to articulate what they do and why.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN:

9781108476850

1108476856

9781108701648

1108701647

OCLC:

1076548554