On Science

by Brian Ridley

Overview

Can science explain everything? Brian Ridley, a physicist himself, explores this question and more in this compelling exploration of both the scope and limits of science. Tracing back to the roots of scientific thinking in a world of 'magical ideas', he argues that science shares more with magic than we are often led to believe.
The book also explores the often overlooked relationship between science and mathematics and the uneasy relationship between the two. This is neatly linked to a fascinating discussion of relativity and quantum theory, reminding us of the many perspectives on offer within science. On Science is essential reading for all those interested in the way we think about and picture science, where it is now, and where it is going.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781134533503
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	05/21/2001
Series:	Thinking in Action
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	240
File size:	550 KB

About the Author

Ridley, Brian

Table of Contents

Preface, Introduction, The Limits of Science, Metascience, Science and Magic, The Magical Theory of Everything, The Music of the Spheres, Science and Mathematics, Numbers, Quantum Magic, Science and the Mind, Science and Society, Science and Art, Science and Sensibility, Notes, Index

Editorial Reviews

'Thought-provoking and well-written ... an excellent introduction to a number of important questions residing at that interface where philosophy borders on science, and science becomes philosophical.' - John Casti, Nature

'The great value of this book is that it goes much further and deeper than a mere statement of principle ...' - Jean-Marc Ley-Leblond, Physics World

From the Publisher