Everyday Practice of Science
Price:
$27.95 (01)Description
Scientific facts can be so complicated that only specialists in a field fully appreciate the details, but the nature of everyday practice that gives rise to these facts should be understandable by everyone interested in science. This book describes how scientists bring their own interests and passions to their work, illustrates the dynamics between researchers and the research community, and emphasizes a contextual understanding of science in place of the linear model found in textbooks with its singular focus on "scientific method." Everyday Practice of Science also introduces readers to issues about science and society. Practice requires value judgments: What should be done? Who should do it? Who should pay for it? How much? Balancing scientific opportunities with societal needs depends on appreciating both the promises and the ambiguities of science. Understanding practice informs discussions about how to manage research integrity, conflict of interest, and the challenge of modern genetics to human research ethics. Society cannot have the benefits of research without the risks. The last chapter contrasts the practices of science and religion as reflective of two different types of faith and describes a holistic framework within which they dynamically interact.Reviews
"An intelligent and very readable book in a calm voice, and it certainly should be read by anyone interested in the ongoing (and raging) dispute about the compatibility of science and religion."--Dan Agin, The Huffington Post
"Everyday Practice of Science should be required reading for any young scientist seeking a deeper and more fully contextualized understanding of science and its impact on society."--The Quarterly Review of Biology
Listed in Science News' Bookshelf
"Drawing upon his long years of professional experience and expertise, Professor Grinnell provides an informed perspective on the subject as he demystifies the processes and provides context for understanding what science is all about and how it generally operates. Everyday Practice of Science is highly recommended reading for both students and non-specialized general readers with an interest in understanding how science works in or out of the laboratory setting."--Midwest Book Review
"Frederick Grinnell has written a book that aims to help the non-scientist understand what scientific practice looks - and feels - like to the scientists...also an excellent read for the scientist who wants an introduction to the philosophical underpinnings of (and challenges inherent within) the scientific knowledge-building project. Grinnell offers thought-provoking observations on the ways the interests of scientists and non-scientists in our society are tied to each other."--Janet D. Stemwedel, Associate Professor of Philosophy at San Jose State University
"I highly recommend The Everyday Practice of Science to anyone who is pursuing or even considering a scientific career. Grinnell's discussions illuminate and provoke deeper thought on aspects of practice that one may otherwise not ponder unless/until they are forced to deal with them in their own career."--Alice Kim, Science and Consciousness Review
About the Author(s)
Frederick Grinnell is Professor of Cell Biology and is Founder of the Program in Ethics in Science and Medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. He has an insider's knowledge of biomedical research based on more than thirty-five years of experience. His studies have been with subjects ranging from molecules to people. Over much the same period, he also has studied philosophical issues at the interface of science, technology and society, especially issues concerning biomedical ethics and research integrity. Combining these perspectives permits him to describe everyday practice of science and to integrate a philosophical and ethical dimension into his descriptions. He frequently lectures on these subjects. His lectures form the basis for this book.
