Description
Book SynopsisToday, only a few people outside of the scientific community are conversant with the tradition of science and its many breakthroughs. The rest are scientifically illiterate. So say Frank R. Spellman and Joni Price-Bayer, authors of In Defense of Science: Why Scientific Literacy Matters. This book explains why ordinary citizens need to have an understanding of science, its methods, and its groundbreaking discoveries. The authors introduce the most basic scientific concepts in accessible and straightforward language. Along the way they debunk several misconceptions of science and scientists, and arrive at a view of science as an integral part of society, policy, and everyday life. The book begins with an introduction to science and its basic concepts, including a brief and entertaining history of science and scientific discoveries, before taking on current views of science in society. It surveys the many sources of our ideas of science, including pop culture, classics of literature, news media, and political discourse. Much of the information from these sources tends to mislead, and the only way to guard against such misinformation is to become scientifically literate, and promote scientific literacy in society. The book therefore delves into the reasons that so many people do not understand basic scientific principles and do not keep up with scientific breakthroughs, and finishes by examining the current state of science education. It includes many resources for further reading, and is presented in an engaging and entertaining way. It offers much food for thought for anyone concerned with science in today's world.
Trade ReviewTwenty-first century reports from the National Academy of Sciences and others reveal a blatant deficiency in the scientific and mathematical abilities of American high school and college students. Paired with the steadily decreasing population of graduate students pursuing advanced STEM degrees, it is obvious that scientific illiteracy is impeding US technological growth as a country. Here, Spellman (environmental health, Old Dominion Univ.), a prolific author, and Price-Bayer (speech language pathologist, Norfolk Public Schools) attempt to remedy scientific illiteracy by addressing the importance of sound scientific exploration while appealing to popular culture....The book provides extensive references to scientific and pedagogical reports for further exploration. Summing Up: Recommended. General readers and lower-division undergraduates. * CHOICE *
Table of ContentsChapter 1 1 What is Science? Chapter 2 2 Why Science? Chapter 3 3 Science in Pop Culture Chapter 4 4 Alternative Sciences Chapter 5 5 Good Science vs. Feel Good Science Chapter 6 6 Science, Politics, and Religion Chapter 7 7 Please, No Science! I Hate Math! Chapter 8 8 Science Is Hard Work-Too Hard! Chapter 9 9 Science Is Only for Nerds, Geeks, and Weirdoes! Chapter 10 10 Science Education and Science Careers
