SCIENCES

Ignorance

How It Drives Science
by Stuart Firestein
Ignorance: How It Drives Science. Oxford Univ. May 2012. c.208p. index. ISBN 9780199828074. $21.95. SCI
COPY ISBN
Who would've guessed that Einstein and Darwin were really just more ignorant than their peers? Firestein (biological science, Columbia Univ.) teaches a college course called Ignorance, and he here argues that science advances not through the accumulation of knowledge but by its ongoing (and sometimes circuitous) struggles against the unknown. Every new discovery presents new questions, and our collective ignorance grows at a pace exceeding our knowledge. The first six chapters examine ways this principle has worked historically and in the work of current researchers. The remaining half of the book is devoted to case studies that, however interesting, do not add much to the book's central thesis.
VERDICT Ignorance, it turns out, is really quite profound, and this is a good introduction to the subject. For a book the author states is intended to be read in one or two sittings, it raises issues worthy of much more thought. Prospective readers include students considering careers in science, fans of popular science, practicing scientists, and readers interested in the sociology and philosophy of science.
Reviewed by Gregg Sapp, Olympia, WA , Apr 15, 2012
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

NONFICTION

Food To Die For: Recipes and Stories from America’s Most Legendary Haunted Places
by Bruni, Amy
NONFICTION

Dinner Tonight: Simple Meals Full of Mediterranean Flavor
by Berg, Meliz
NONFICTION

Amrikan: 125 Recipes from the Indian American Diaspora
by Shah, Khushbu
NONFICTION

What To Cook When You Don’t Feel like Cooking
by Chambers, Caroline
NONFICTION

AfriCali: Recipes from My Jikoni
by Moju, Kiano
NONFICTION

Pretty Simple Cocktails: Margaritas, Mocktails, Spritzes, and More for Every Mood and Occasion
by McIntosh, Julianna
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?