Great Essays in Science [Paperback]

Martin Gardner (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 1994

Martin Gardner, author of numerous books on science, mathematics, and pseudo-science, has assembled thirty-four extraordinary essays by eminent philosophers, scientists, and writers on the fundamental aspects of modern science. As Gardner makes clear in his preface to the formerly titled "Sacred Beetle and Other Great Essays in Science", his intent is not to teach the reader science or to report on the latest trends and discoveries. 'Rather, the purpose of this book is to spread before the reader, whether his or her interest in science be passionate or mild, a sumptuous feast of great writing - absorbing, thought-disturbing pieces that have something to say about science and say it forcibly and well'. Gardner's entertaining biographical commentaries make Great "Essays in Science" a rich store of good reading and an informal history of the people and ideas that have shaped our culture and transformed our everyday lives.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

In Great Essays in Science Martin Gardner has collected essays by 32 great scientists and science writers. This excellent assortment of well-written, uncut pieces features Albert Einstein on "E=mc2," G. K. Chesterton on "The Logic of Elfland," Sigmund Freud on dreams, and Rachel Carson on the sea. Gardner, one of the best science writers and most insightful readers of the 20th century, thoughtfully introduces each essay. Originally published in 1957 and slightly updated in 1984, this reissued edition is unchanged in providing, as Gardner promises, "absorbing, thought-disturbing pieces that have something important to say about science and say it forcefully and well."

Review

"How do you condense some of the best writings in science during the last 100 years? Select the 31 most wonderful contributors to science and science writing in that period. Pick some of the most thought-provoking contributions by them that represent the peak of their accomplishments. That is what Martin Gardner has done in editing this anthology ..." - Science Books & Films

Product Details

• Paperback: 427 pages
• Publisher: Prometheus Books (January 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0879758538
• ISBN-13: 978-0879758530
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 1.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,335,666 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Must Read For Anyone In Science (and those not in it too!), June 12, 2000

By 

Douglas R. Mulford - See all my reviews

This review is from: Great Essays in Science (Paperback)

'Great Essays in Science' is a fantastic collection of great works of writing by some of the greatest thinkers of our time. This book is a definitely read not only for anyone who considers themselves to be any kind of scientist, but for anyone who has ever heard of people such as Darwin and Einstein. These are works by the men we all know, but here is a chance to hear their own thoughts on their science and it's implications. From discussing the amorality of nature to dream interpretation to talking about the implications of science for religion and vice versa this book covers all area of our lives and culture. This book should be considered required reading for anyone who considers themselves and informed member of our society!

1 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Delightful discovery, July 20, 2006

By 

Erik Lundberg (Gainesville, FL United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Great Essays in Science (Paperback)

I have read science excerpts on SAT tests, which is what I would have imagined if someone said "Essay in Science" until I found two anthologies of science essays: Galileo's Commandment and Great Essays in Science. This is a must for anyone in science who would like some nontechnical science writing. It can be relaxing, entertaining, diverting, humorous, and stimulating.