Essays

Boasting almost one hundred articles and book excerpts, The Oxford Book of Modern Science Writing is a breathtaking celebration of the finest writing by scientists--the best such collection in print--packed with scintillating essays on everything from "The Discovery of Lucy" to "The Terror and Vastness of the Universe."Edited by best-selling author and renowned scientist Richard Dawkins, this sterling collection brings together exhilarating pieces by a who's who of scientists and science writers, including Stephen Pinker, Stephen Jay Gould, Martin Gardner, Albert Einstein, Julian Huxley, and many dozens more. Readers will find excerpts from bestsellers such as Douglas R. Hofstadter's Godel, Escher, Bach , Francis Crick's Life Itself , Loren Eiseley's The Immense Journey , Daniel Dennett's Darwin's Dangerous Idea , and Rachel Carson's The Sea Around Us . There are classic essays ranging from J.B.S. Haldane's "On Being the Right Size" and Garrett Hardin's "The Tragedy of the Commons" to Alan Turing's "Computing Machinery and Intelligence" and Albert Einstein's famed New York Times article on "Relativity." And readers will also discover lesser-known but engaging pieces such as Lewis Thomas's "Seven Wonders of Science," J. Robert Oppenheimer on "War and Physicists," and Freeman Dyson's memoir of studyingunder Hans Bethe.A must-read volume for all science buffs, The Oxford Book of Modern Science Writing is a rich and vibrant anthology that captures the poetry and excitement of scientific thought and discovery.

This book is an insightful and engaging collection of essays that explores a wide range of scientific and personal topics. Perutz's writing style is warm, witty, and relatable, making it a great choice for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between science and humanity. The book's most unique feature is perhaps how it seamlessly blends the personal and the scientific, making it a highly enjoyable and informative read for individuals of all backgrounds.

The eminent physician-essayist combines an account of his life as a physician, researcher, and administrator with meditations on the practice and promise of medicine

This book could be a good read for you if you are fascinated by the mysteries of the human mind and the extraordinary ways in which it can adapt to neurological disorders. Through seven captivating narratives, Oliver Sacks introduces you to individuals whose conditions have not debilitated them but rather opened the door to another reality. With his poetic observation and sense of wonder, Sacks immerses you in their world, allowing you to understand and appreciate the complexities of the human brain. Prepare to be amazed and inspired by these paradoxical tales.

After years of reflecting on the absurdities of life on other planets, Douglas Adams teams up with zoologist Mark Carwardine on an expedition to find out what's happening to life on this one.

The Scent of Desire is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the captivating world of smell. Rachel Herz's insightful and comprehensive investigation into the science and psychology of smell provides answers to why certain scents affect us differently and the impact it has on our lives. Through personal anecdotes and scientific research, this book is a delightful and informative read that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the power of smell.

"The End of Science" provides a thought-provoking reflection on the current state of scientific inquiry, challenging readers to consider whether there is a limit to what we can know and how science is perceived. With interviews from renowned scientists, readers can gain insight into the latest developments in scientific theory, while being forced to critically evaluate the notion of a "theory of everything". This book would be a great read for those interested in philosophy of science or seeking to broaden their understanding of current scientific thought.

The Medusa and the Snail is a great read for biology enthusiasts who enjoy exploring creatures and processes that are not usually given much attention. The author's use of a tiny jellyfish and sea slug as a metaphor offers a unique perspective on eternal issues. The essays on the human genius for making mistakes and an assessment of medical science and health care are also valuable takeaways from the book. Overall, this book is a great blend of wonder and wit, and is highly recommended for anyone interested in biology.