Great Feuds and Portraits of Discovery: A Human Side of Science
The Nature of Science
Science, often seen as an objective pursuit of truth, sets itself apart from the humanities. Scientists are typically portrayed as impartial observers, armed with instruments and cloistered in laboratories. However, this idealized view fails to capture the human element that plays a crucial role in scientific discovery.
Science in the Flesh
The books “Great Feuds in Science” by Hal Hellman and “Portraits of Discovery” by George Greenstein offer a more nuanced perspective on science. They reveal the human side of scientific research, showing how scientists are just as susceptible to emotion, ego, and error as anyone else.
Great Feuds in Science
Hellman’s book focuses on the great feuds that have shaped the history of science, from Galileo’s clash with the pope to the ongoing debate over Derek Freeman’s criticism of Margaret Mead’s work on Samoan adolescence. Hellman explores the deeper meanings behind these conflicts, revealing the personal and intellectual stakes involved.
Portraits of Discovery
Greenstein’s book offers intimate portraits of some of the greatest minds in science, including George Gamow, Richard Feynman, Luis Alvarez, and J. Robert Oppenheimer. He delves into their complex personalities, motivations, and contributions to the field.
The Changing Landscape of Science
Greenstein also examines the changing nature of scientific research. He notes the rise of “big science,” which involves large teams of collaborators and massive budgets. He also discusses the increasing role of administrators and the challenges faced by women in science.
Resistance to New Ideas
Both Hellman and Greenstein highlight the resistance to new ideas that is often encountered in science. Scientists, like all humans, tend to cling to their own beliefs and view outsiders with suspicion. This can lead to heated debates and even personal attacks.
The Human Element in Science
The human element in science is both a strength and a weakness. It can lead to great discoveries and innovations, but it can also hinder progress and create conflict. Hellman and Greenstein remind us that science is not just about facts and figures, but also about the people who make it happen.
The Relationship Between Science and the Humanities
Despite the differences between science and the humanities, they are ultimately intertwined. Science relies on the methods of logic and observation, while the humanities provide context and meaning to scientific discoveries. Greenstein argues that the separation of science from the humanities has led to a loss of perspective and a failure to fully understand the human experience.
The Motivations of Scientists
Scientists are often motivated by a desire to understand the world around them and to make a difference. However, as Hellman and Greenstein show, other factors, such as personal ambition and the pursuit of fame, can also play a role.
The Impact of Science on Society
Scientific discoveries have had a profound impact on society, both positive and negative. They have led to advances in medicine, technology, and our understanding of the universe. However, they have also raised ethical concerns and created new challenges.
Conclusion
“Great Feuds in Science” and “Portraits of Discovery” offer a fascinating glimpse into the human side of science. They remind us that science is not just a cold, objective pursuit of truth, but a deeply human endeavor that is shaped by the passions, biases, and personalities of those who practice it.