Science, Myth or Magic?: A Struggle for Existence - Softcover

Barnett, S. Anthony

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1865081221 ISBN 13: 9781865081229

Publisher: Allen & Unwin, 2000

Synopsis

Distinguishing between true science and superstition, magic, charlatantry, and pseudobiology, this guide to what true science really is and what it can do offers explanations for and rational responses to common misconceptions about science. A number of popular but erroneous beliefs, such as the idea that "statistically significant" means "proved" or the idea that cloning can yield an accurate replica of a particular person, are scrutinized from a scientific point of view. The struggles of scientists, the contrasting roles of logic and intuition, and the moral implications of certain sciences are discussed, as are the attributes that make true science distinctive as a practice.

About this title

About the Author

Tony Barnett was Professor of Zoology at the Australian National University until his retirement. He is internationally known for his many researches on stress and exploratory behaviour and also for his insistence on logical and scientific rigour in biological debate. His earlier works have been widely published and translated. He has had many years' experience of science broadcasting and continues to be a regular contributor to ABC Radio's Science Show and Occam's Razor. His most recent book, The Science of Life (1998), was published to acclaim.

Edition details

• Publisher: Allen & Unwin
• Publication date: 2000
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1865081221
• ISBN 13: 9781865081229
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 224