Modern advances present a democratic society with a paradox. The citizenry has the right—and the burden—to make decisions about the future of science and technology. Yet its increasingly esoteric nature places a second burden on the public, since it is difficult, if not impossible, for the public or its representatives to make informed decisions.
Gerald Holton's latest collection of essays, which, with the exception of the Jefferson Lecture are all revisions of previously published popular pieces, addresses a variety of issues. Several essays identify factors that played a role in the great theoretical advances of 20th century physics. Others focus on the emergence of the United States as a world leader in science-based technology. Also included are essays discussing the burdens that the rapid advancement of science and technology place on a free, democratic society.
While each essay in the volume develops its own valuable and interesting thesis, taken together ...
