ScienceBites

ScienceBites PDF Author: Gerard Jagers op Akkerhuis
Publisher: BRILL
ISBN: 9086868878
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 142

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Book Description
In science, concepts such as organism, evolution and life, are used almost every day. Every scientist knows the general meaning of such concepts. At the same time, nature is complex, and for this reason, it is difficult to draw stringent lines around classes of things. Scientists therefore accept the use of so called 'working definitions' for many concepts. It is frequently advocated that working on definitions has little use for practical research. This book explores a different viewpoint, in which definitions are compared with tools. If your toolbox contains too few tools, tools that are worn down, or tools that don't fit, it becomes difficult to carry out even the most easy maintenance or repair job. Experts know: suitable tools make the work easier. The aim of this book is to examine much-used concepts in science as if these are tools in a scientific toolbox. Do the current definitions represent quality tools? To explore this question, this book uses a recently developed hierarchy theory, the operator theory, as a reference. This theory is explained in the first chapter. Whenever the analyses suggest to do so, the ScienceBites offer directions for improvement of current definitions. 'These delicious bites of science will inspire readers to devour much more scientific knowledge, and to reflect on the importance for humanity of progress in the sciences.' Prof. Dr Herman Philipse Utrecht University 'In this "golden age of biology" SCIENCEBITES provides a much needed critical reflection on its core terms' Prof. Dr Bart Gremmen Wageningen University & Research 'This is one of the most fascinating books I have read recently. Do not be deceived by the brevity of the chapters. Each gave me food for thought during many days.' Dr Peter Roessingh University of Amsterdam

ScienceBites

ScienceBites PDF Author: Gerard Jagers op Akkerhuis
Publisher: BRILL
ISBN: 9086868878
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 142

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Book Description
In science, concepts such as organism, evolution and life, are used almost every day. Every scientist knows the general meaning of such concepts. At the same time, nature is complex, and for this reason, it is difficult to draw stringent lines around classes of things. Scientists therefore accept the use of so called 'working definitions' for many concepts. It is frequently advocated that working on definitions has little use for practical research. This book explores a different viewpoint, in which definitions are compared with tools. If your toolbox contains too few tools, tools that are worn down, or tools that don't fit, it becomes difficult to carry out even the most easy maintenance or repair job. Experts know: suitable tools make the work easier. The aim of this book is to examine much-used concepts in science as if these are tools in a scientific toolbox. Do the current definitions represent quality tools? To explore this question, this book uses a recently developed hierarchy theory, the operator theory, as a reference. This theory is explained in the first chapter. Whenever the analyses suggest to do so, the ScienceBites offer directions for improvement of current definitions. 'These delicious bites of science will inspire readers to devour much more scientific knowledge, and to reflect on the importance for humanity of progress in the sciences.' Prof. Dr Herman Philipse Utrecht University 'In this "golden age of biology" SCIENCEBITES provides a much needed critical reflection on its core terms' Prof. Dr Bart Gremmen Wageningen University & Research 'This is one of the most fascinating books I have read recently. Do not be deceived by the brevity of the chapters. Each gave me food for thought during many days.' Dr Peter Roessingh University of Amsterdam

Environmental ScienceBites

Environmental ScienceBites PDF Author: Kylienne A. Clark
Publisher: The Ohio State University
ISBN:
Category : Nature
Languages : en
Pages : 594

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Book Description
This book was written by undergraduate students at The Ohio State University (OSU) who were enrolled in the class Introduction to Environmental Science. The chapters describe some of Earth's major environmental challenges and discuss ways that humans are using cutting-edge science and engineering to provide sustainable solutions to these problems. Topics are as diverse as the students, who represent virtually every department, school and college at OSU. The environmental issue that is described in each chapter is particularly important to the author, who hopes that their story will serve as inspiration to protect Earth for all life.

Philosophy Bites Back

Philosophy Bites Back PDF Author: David Edmonds
Publisher: OUP Oxford
ISBN: 0191655392
Category : Philosophy
Languages : en
Pages : 304

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Book Description
Philosophy Bites Back is the second book to come out of the hugely successful podcast Philosophy Bites. It presents a selection of lively interviews with leading philosophers of our time, who discuss the ideas and works of some of the most important thinkers in history. From the ancient classics of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, to the groundbreaking modern thought of Wittgenstein, Rawls, and Derrida, this volume spans over two and a half millennia of western philosophy and illuminates its most fascinating ideas. Philosophy Bites was set up in 2007 by David Edmonds and Nigel Warburton. It has had over 12 million downloads, and is listened to all over the world.

Big Ideas in Social Science

Big Ideas in Social Science PDF Author: David Edmonds
Publisher: SAGE
ISBN: 1473933498
Category : Social Science
Languages : en
Pages : 185

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Book Description
Are human beings less violent than before? Why do we adopt certain moral and political judgements? Why is the gap between rich and poor getting bigger? How do we decide which criminal policies are effective? What is the Population Challenge for the 21st Century? What is social science? In Big Ideas in Social Science, David Edmonds and Nigel Warburton put these and more of our society’s burning questions to 18 of the world’s leading social scientists including Steven Pinker, Ann Oakley, Lawrence Sherman, Kate Pickett, Robert J. Shiller and Doreen Massey. The result is a collection of thought-provoking discussions that span the fields of sociology, politics, economics, criminology, geography and many more.From the people who brought us the Philosophy Bites series, Big Ideas in Social Science is a fascinating and accessible introduction to the key ideas and findings of the social sciences. The interviews for this book are based on a series of podcasts, Social Science Bites, sponsored by SAGE. Social Science Bites was inspired by the popular Philosophy Bites podcast (www.philosophybites.com), which was founded by David and Nigel in 2007 and has so far had 26 million downloads. Philosophy Bites has spawned three books, Philosophy Bites, Philosophy Bites Back and Philosophy Bites Again.

Innovations in Remote and Online Education by Hydrologic Scientists

Innovations in Remote and Online Education by Hydrologic Scientists PDF Author: Bridget Mulvey
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
ISBN: 2832508448
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 188

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Book Description


Together Apart

Together Apart PDF Author: Jolanda Jetten
Publisher: SAGE
ISBN: 1529751705
Category : Psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 172

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Book Description
Written by leading social psychologists with expertise in leadership, health and emergency behaviour – who have also played an important role in advising governments on COVID-19 – this book provides a broad but integrated analysis of the psychology of COVID-19 It explores the response to COVID-19 through the lens of social identity theory, drawing from insights provided by four decades of research. Starting from the premise that an effective response to the pandemic depends upon people coming together and supporting each other as members of a common community, the book helps us to understand emerging processes related to social (dis)connectedness, collective behaviour and the societal effects of COVID-19. In this it shows how psychological theory can help us better understand, and respond to, the events shaping the world in 2020. Considering key topics such as: Leadership Communication Risk perception Social isolation Mental health Inequality Misinformation Prejudice and racism Behaviour change Social Disorder This book offers the foundation on which future analysis, intervention and policy can be built. We are proud to support the research into Covid-19 and are delighted to offer the finalised eBook for free. All Royalties from this book will be donated to charity.

The Social Life of DNA

The Social Life of DNA PDF Author: Alondra Nelson
Publisher: Beacon Press
ISBN: 0807033014
Category : History
Languages : en
Pages : 218

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Book Description
The unexpected story of how genetic testing is affecting race in America We know DNA is a master key that unlocks medical and forensic secrets, but its genealogical life is both revelatory and endlessly fascinating. Tracing genealogy is now the second-most popular hobby amongst Americans, as well as the second-most visited online category. This billion-dollar industry has spawned popular television shows, websites, and Internet communities, and a booming heritage tourism circuit. The tsunami of interest in genetic ancestry tracing from the African American community has been especially overwhelming. In The Social Life of DNA, Alondra Nelson takes us on an unprecedented journey into how the double helix has wound its way into the heart of the most urgent contemporary social issues around race. For over a decade, Nelson has deeply studied this phenomenon. Artfully weaving together keenly observed interactions with root-seekers alongside illuminating historical details and revealing personal narrative, she shows that genetic genealogy is a new tool for addressing old and enduring issues. In The Social Life of DNA, she explains how these cutting-edge DNA-based techniques are being used in myriad ways, including grappling with the unfinished business of slavery: to foster reconciliation, to establish ties with African ancestral homelands, to rethink and sometimes alter citizenship, and to make legal claims for slavery reparations specifically based on ancestry. Nelson incisively shows that DNA is a portal to the past that yields insight for the present and future, shining a light on social traumas and historical injustices that still resonate today. Science can be a crucial ally to activism to spur social change and transform twenty-first-century racial politics. But Nelson warns her readers to be discerning: for the social repair we seek can't be found in even the most sophisticated science. Engrossing and highly original, The Social Life of DNA is a must-read for anyone interested in race, science, history and how our reckoning with the past may help us to chart a more just course for tomorrow.

The Ritual Animal

The Ritual Animal PDF Author: Harvey Whitehouse
Publisher: Oxford University Press
ISBN: 0199646368
Category : Ritual
Languages : en
Pages : 251

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Book Description
Copying rituals has allowed cultural groups to proliferate over time. Rare, traumatic rituals produce strong cohesion in small relational groups, whereas daily/weekly rituals produce cohesion in expandable communities. This study presents a theory of how these two ritual modes have influenced history over thousands of years.

The PlantPlus Diet Solution

The PlantPlus Diet Solution PDF Author: Joan Z. Borysenko, Ph.D.
Publisher: Hay House, Inc
ISBN: 1401954251
Category : Health & Fitness
Languages : en
Pages : 361

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Book Description
Harvard-trained cell biologist, health psychologist, and New York Times best-selling author Joan Borysenko, Ph.D., cuts through the thicket of confusing—and often downright wrong—advice on nutrition. She gives you easy-to-digest, bite-sized servings of real scientific information to help you discover which foods your body needs to heal and thrive. In this book, you will discover: •How to personalize your diet based on your genes •How your diet can actually change your genes through epigenetics •The importance of your gut bacteria, and the best plants that feed them •How to optimize your metabolism and lose weight •What tests to ask your doctor for and why for vibrant health Joan also dives into the psychology behind why it’s so hard to make changes, offering practical tips to rewire your brain to reduce cravings and enhance your eating pleasure. Finally, she offers quick recipes and easy-to-follow meal plans that you and your family will love whether you’re omnivores, vegans, or vegetarians.

Free Speech: A Very Short Introduction

Free Speech: A Very Short Introduction PDF Author: Nigel Warburton
Publisher: OUP Oxford
ISBN: 0191622788
Category : Political Science
Languages : en
Pages : 128

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Book Description
'I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it' This slogan, attributed to Voltaire, is frequently quoted by defenders of free speech. Yet it is rare to find anyone prepared to defend all expression in every circumstance, especially if the views expressed incite violence. So where do the limits lie? What is the real value of free speech? Here, Nigel Warburton offers a concise guide to important questions facing modern society about the value and limits of free speech: Where should a civilized society draw the line? Should we be free to offend other people's religion? Are there good grounds for censoring pornography? Has the Internet changed everything? This Very Short Introduction is a thought-provoking, accessible, and up-to-date examination of the liberal assumption that free speech is worth preserving at any cost. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.