Thinking about Science

Ferric C. Fang , Arturo Casadevall 지음

ASM Press 2023년 10월 09일 출간

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Thinking about Science: Good Science, Bad Science, and How to Make It Better A riveting exploration of the world of science, diving headfirst into its triumphs and tribulations. Penned by seasoned microbiologists Ferric C. Fang and Arturo Casadevall, this book offers a comprehensive analysis of the scientific enterprise through various lenses, including historical, philosophical, and personal. From their unique vantage points as researchers, clinicians, and educators, Fang and Casadevall dissect the intricate mechanisms of science, shedding light on its strengths and weaknesses. Through engaging historical anecdotes, personal narratives, and insightful academic studies, they present a candid evaluation of science's performance, including a thought-provoking examination of its role during the COVID-19 pandemic. A must-read for anyone curious about the present predicaments and future potential of science, Thinking about Science: Good Science, Bad Science, and How to Make It Better is more than just a book; it's a roadmap to understanding and improving the scientific endeavor for the benefit of society at large. "The authors have given us a thoughtful description of science and the joy of discovery, an unflinching diagnosis of where improvements are needed, and recommendations for remedies well worth considering. Scientists, science and society would benefit if this book were read by both future and established scientists, as well as the administrators, policymakers, and regulators who are in a position to help us do better." Michael Kalichman, UC San Diego "With a deep understanding of the profound impact of science on society, the authors provide thought-provoking perspectives on changes in the scientific enterprise that will support sustainable, equitable practices, and engender public trust. An engaging read for everyone with an interest in science or science policy." Stanley Maloy, San Die

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List of Boxes, Figures, and Tables ix Preface xiii Acknowledgments xvii About the Authors xix Section I Definitions of Science 1 Chapter 1 What Is Science? 3 We discuss the epistemological origins of science; features of the scientific method; and characteristics to distinguish science from intuition, belief, or pseudoscience. Chapter 2 Descriptive Science 15 We argue that although “descriptive” is an adjective often used pejoratively, description plays a vital role in science and is essential for the generation and testing of hypotheses. Chapter 3 Mechanistic Science 23 We explain that the adjective “mechanistic” is often applied to explanatory science, but its meaning is relative. Chapter 4 Reductionistic and Holistic Science 33 We show that reductionism and holism are two ends of a scientific spectrum that are often viewed in opposition but are actually complementary and essential. Section II Good Science 41 Chapter 5 Elegant Science 43 We consider what scientists mean when they refer to an “elegant” idea or experiment and how the quest for elegance can mislead. Chapter 6 Rigorous Science 51 We provide a how-to guide for performing rigorous research that produces reliable results. Chapter 7 Reproducible Science 61 We explore why reproducibility is prized in science and why it is so elusive. Chapter 8 Important Science 73 We propose criteria to assess whether a scientific finding or line of inquiry is important. Chapter 9 Historical Science 85 We discuss why the history of a scientific discovery is important even though it may be neglected or distorted by scientists. Chapter 10 Specialized Science 95 We examine the value and risk of specializ

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저자(글) Ferric C. Fang

저자(글) Arturo Casadevall