Falling For Science (Bernard Beckett, 2008)

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ISBN 978-1-877361-72-2

Reviewed by Chris Clowes

This is a great little book which, as the subtitle claims, asks the big questions.

In a series of chapters which gradually build upon one another, Beckett takes on the under-pinning philosophy of science, theism, nature/nurture, the concept of lineage, and consciousness.

At the risk of over-simplifying, his central focus, which deserves a wider audience – even, or especially, among scientists themselves – is the fine line between hypothesis and speculation; his warning that we venture across this line, into what he calls story-telling, rather more often than we care to admit.

A good antedote if you're getting fed up with the pop science press – the Stephen Goulds and Richard Dawkins who know everything, or reckon they do – but still love science. A book for everyone.

Recommendation: A grand little escapade; highly recommended.

Look and Feel: My review copy was the usual paperback; no illustrations; it has a very brief index.

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