Science, Truth, And Meaning: From Wonder To Understanding

Science, Truth, And Meaning: From Wonder To Understanding PDF Author: Benjamin L J Webb
Publisher: World Scientific
ISBN: 9811231915
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 721

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Book Description
Science, Truth, and Meaning presents a scientific and philosophical examination of our place in the world. It also celebrates how diverse, scientific knowledge is interconnected and reducible to common foundations.The book focuses on aspects of scientific truth that relate to our understanding of reality, and confronts whether truth is absolute or relative to what we are. Hence, it assesses the meaning of the scientific deductions we have made and how they have profoundly influenced our conception of life and existence.The subtitle is 'From Wonder to Understanding', which is a paraphrased quote from Einstein, who said that the search for scientific truth is ' ... a continual flight from wonder to understanding'.In addressing the goal of advancing our understanding of our place in the world, this book also reveals the development and details of diverse sciences, their connections and achievements, and that while perhaps the same fundamental questions exist, they are seen in the light of an ever-refined scientific perspective on reality.Why the book is needed: many popular science books have been written, aimed at different levels of subject expertise, and nearly all treat their specific subject in isolation. Few attempt to link different sciences to their common foundations, and those that do are written by physicists. Since human knowledge is derived by, and relates to, the biological organism that human beings are, then such a book written from a biological perspective represents a novel perspective on the integration of science, and addresses new questions. This is such a book.Impressive aspects: the depth, breadth, consistency, and clarity of the work.

Science, Truth, And Meaning: From Wonder To Understanding

Science, Truth, And Meaning: From Wonder To Understanding PDF Author: Benjamin L J Webb
Publisher: World Scientific
ISBN: 9811231915
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 721

Get Book

Book Description
Science, Truth, and Meaning presents a scientific and philosophical examination of our place in the world. It also celebrates how diverse, scientific knowledge is interconnected and reducible to common foundations.The book focuses on aspects of scientific truth that relate to our understanding of reality, and confronts whether truth is absolute or relative to what we are. Hence, it assesses the meaning of the scientific deductions we have made and how they have profoundly influenced our conception of life and existence.The subtitle is 'From Wonder to Understanding', which is a paraphrased quote from Einstein, who said that the search for scientific truth is ' ... a continual flight from wonder to understanding'.In addressing the goal of advancing our understanding of our place in the world, this book also reveals the development and details of diverse sciences, their connections and achievements, and that while perhaps the same fundamental questions exist, they are seen in the light of an ever-refined scientific perspective on reality.Why the book is needed: many popular science books have been written, aimed at different levels of subject expertise, and nearly all treat their specific subject in isolation. Few attempt to link different sciences to their common foundations, and those that do are written by physicists. Since human knowledge is derived by, and relates to, the biological organism that human beings are, then such a book written from a biological perspective represents a novel perspective on the integration of science, and addresses new questions. This is such a book.Impressive aspects: the depth, breadth, consistency, and clarity of the work.

The Varieties of Scientific Experience

The Varieties of Scientific Experience PDF Author: Carl Sagan
Publisher: Penguin
ISBN: 1101201835
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 316

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Book Description
“Ann Druyan has unearthed a treasure. It is a treasure of reason, compassion, and scientific awe. It should be the next book you read.” —Sam Harris, author of The End of Faith “A stunningly valuable legacy left to all of us by a great human being. I miss him so.” —Kurt Vonnegut Carl Sagan's prophetic vision of the tragic resurgence of fundamentalism and the hope-filled potential of the next great development in human spirituality The late great astronomer and astrophysicist describes his personal search to understand the nature of the sacred in the vastness of the cosmos. Exhibiting a breadth of intellect nothing short of astounding, Sagan presents his views on a wide range of topics, including the likelihood of intelligent life on other planets, creationism and so-called intelligent design, and a new concept of science as "informed worship." Originally presented at the centennial celebration of the famous Gifford Lectures in Scotland in 1985 but never published, this book offers a unique encounter with one of the most remarkable minds of the twentieth century.

The Way of Science

The Way of Science PDF Author: Dennis R. Trumble
Publisher: Prometheus Books
ISBN: 1616147563
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 348

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Book Description
How science can convey a profound sense of wonder, connectedness, and optimism about the human condition. This book makes a compelling case that now more than ever the public at large needs to appreciate the critical-thinking tools that science has to offer and be educated in basic science literacy. The author emphasizes that the methods and facts of science are accessible to everyone, and that, contrary to popular belief, understanding science does not require extraordinary intelligence. He also notes that scientific rationality and critical thinking are not only good for our physical well-being but also are fully in sync with our highest moral codes. He illustrates the many ways in which the scientific worldview offers a profound sense of wonder, connectedness, and optimism about the human condition, an inspiring perspective that satisfies age-old spiritual aspirations. At a time of daunting environmental challenges and rampant misinformation, this book provides a welcome corrective and reason to hope for the future.

A Theory of Wonder: Evolution, Brain and the Radical Nature of Science

A Theory of Wonder: Evolution, Brain and the Radical Nature of Science PDF Author: Gonzalo Munévar
Publisher: Vernon Press
ISBN: 1648892825
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 206

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Book Description
‘A Theory of Wonder’ aims to determine the best way science can satisfy our sense of wonder by exploring the world. Empiricism tells us that science succeeds because it follows the scientific method: Observation passes judgment on Theory – supporting or rejecting it. Much credit is given to the inventor of the method, Galileo, but when historically-minded philosophers of science like Kuhn and Feyerabend called our attention to what Galileo actually wrote and did, we were shocked to find out that Galileo instead drives a dagger through the heart of empiricism; he strikes down the distinction between theory and observation. Plain facts, like the vertical fall of a stone, ruled out the motion of the Earth. To conclude that the stone really falls vertically, however, we must assume that the Earth does not move. If it does move, then the stone only “seems” to fall vertically. Galileo then replaced the “facts” against the motion of the Earth with “facts” that included such motion. This process is typical during scientific revolutions. A good strategy for science is to elaborate radical alternatives; then, and on their basis, reconsider what counts as evidence. Feyerabend was called irrational for this suggestion; but looking at the practice of science from the perspective of evolution and neuroscience shows that the suggestion is very reasonable instead, and, moreover, explains why science works best as a radical form of knowledge. It also leads to a sensible biological form of relative truth, with preliminary drafts leading to exciting discussions with other researchers in the philosophy of science. This book will be of particular interest to university students, instructors and researchers in history or philosophy of science, as well as those with a general interest in the nature of science.

Wonder

Wonder PDF Author: Robert C. Fuller
Publisher: Univ of North Carolina Press
ISBN: 0807889903
Category : Religion
Languages : en
Pages : 200

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Book Description
The attempt to identify the emotional sources of religion goes back to antiquity. In an exploration that bridges science and spirituality, Robert C. Fuller makes the convincing case that a sense of wonder is a principal source of humanity's belief in the existence of an unseen order of life. Like no other emotion, Fuller argues, wonder prompts us to pause, admire, and open our hearts and minds. With a voice that seamlessly blends the scientific and the contemplative, Fuller defines wonder in keeping with the tradition of Socrates--as an emotion related to curiosity and awe that stimulates engagement with the immediate physical world. He draws on the natural and social sciences to explain how wonder can, at the same time, elicit belief in the existence of a more-than-physical reality. Chapters examining emotions in evolutionary biology and the importance of wonder in human cognitive development alternate with chapters on John Muir, William James, and Rachel Carson, whom Fuller identifies as "exemplars of wonder." The writings and lives of these individuals express a functional side of emotion: that the very survival of life on earth today may depend on the empathy, compassion, and care that are aroused by a sense of wonder. Forging new pathways between the social sciences, philosophy, belief, and cultural history, Wonder deepens our understanding of the complex sources of personal spirituality and fulfillment.

Consecrating Science

Consecrating Science PDF Author: Lisa H. Sideris
Publisher: Univ of California Press
ISBN: 0520967909
Category : Religion
Languages : en
Pages : 296

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Book Description
Debunking myths behind what is known collectively as the new cosmology—a grand, overlapping set of narratives that claim to bring science and spirituality together—Lisa H. Sideris offers a searing critique of the movement’s anthropocentric vision of the world. In Consecrating Science, Sideris argues that instead of cultivating an ethic of respect for nature, the new cosmology encourages human arrogance, uncritical reverence for science, and indifference to nonhuman life. Exploring moral sensibilities rooted in experience of the natural world, Sideris shows how a sense of wonder can foster environmental attitudes that will protect our planet from ecological collapse for years to come.

From Galileo to Gell-Mann

From Galileo to Gell-Mann PDF Author: Marco Bersanelli
Publisher: Templeton Foundation Press
ISBN: 1599473402
Category : Reference
Languages : en
Pages : 337

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Book Description
This work explores why scientists commited themselves so ardently to life in the laboratory and what motivated them to keep their eye to the microscope for years on end. This anthology gathers the answers to these questions from over 100 of the brightest scientific minds, both past and present.

Consilience, Truth and the Mind of God

Consilience, Truth and the Mind of God PDF Author: Richard J. Di Rocco
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 3030018695
Category : Philosophy
Languages : en
Pages : 153

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Book Description
This book argues that God can be found within the edifice of the scientific understanding of physics, cosmology, biology and philosophy. It is a rewarding read that asks the Big Questions which humans have pondered since the dawn of the modern human mind, including: Why and how does the universe exist? From where do the laws of physics come? How did life and mind arise from inanimate matter on Earth? Science and religion have a common interest in the answers to such questions, yet many scientists and believers have been at odds for centuries. The author and contributors present a program for moving beyond the vastly different perspectives of reality offered by science and religion. Historical proofs for the existence of God are considered in light of the possibility that the universe may be only one in an eternal multiverse that contains an infinite number of other universes. Readers will find a modification of St. Augustine’s Argument from Truth for the existence of the necessary, self-sufficient being commonly referred to as God. This book is suited to all with an interest in the crossing points of science and religion, providing much food for thought and reflection. If in the end, you cannot accede to philosophy’s proofs, or theism’s invitation to faith, perhaps you will nevertheless say ‘yes’ to the amazing universe in which we live.

Philosophy of Education

Philosophy of Education PDF Author: Chandra Soti Shivendra
Publisher: Atlantic Publishers & Dist
ISBN: 9788171566372
Category : Education
Languages : en
Pages : 268

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Book Description
It Has Been Rightly Said That Only A True Philosopher May Give A Practical Shape To Education. Philosophy And Education Go Hand In Hand. Education Depends On Philosophy For Its Guidance While Philosophy Depends On Education For Its Own Formulation. Teaching Methods Are Very Much Concerned With The Philosophy Of Education The Teacher Holds. The Philosophical Systems Of Education Govern The Teacher S Attitude To The Method Of Teaching. With A View To Comprehend The Close Relationship Of Philosophy And Education And Their Great Significance In The Modern Times, The Present Book Philosophy Of Education Has Been Written.The Book Aims At Presenting The Western Isms Of Philosophy As Well As Indian Philosophy Of Education Beginning From The Vedas To The Contemporary Philosophies. It Elucidates The Philosophical Issues And Attempts To Draw The Philosophical Implications Of Every Isms . Invaluable Viewpoints On Education Of Eminent Educators Like Rousseau, Russell, Swami Dayanand, Annie Besant, M.K. Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore And Many Others, And The Influence Of Their Philosophies Have Been Studied In Depth. It Acquaints The Readers With The Varied Aims And Ideals Of Education, Methods And Principles Of Teaching, Role And Influence Of Teachers As Propounded By The Great Philosophers.Written In A Simple Language And Lucid Style, The Book Is Expected To Serve As An Ideal Textbook On The Subject. It Will Prove Indispensable For The Students And Teachers Of Education. Question Bank At The End Of The Book Is An Added Advantage Provided To The Students Which Would Prove Helpful In Preparation For Examination. Even The General Readers Will Find This Book Worth-Reading.

Science and Health, with Key to the Scriptures

Science and Health, with Key to the Scriptures PDF Author: Mary Baker Eddy
Publisher: Prabhat Prakashan
ISBN:
Category : Religion
Languages : en
Pages : 497

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Book Description
A book introduces new thoughts, but it cannot make them speedily understood. It is the task of the sturdypioneer to hew the tall oak and to cut the rough granite. Future ages must declare what the pioneer has accomplished.