Adam Gopnik - Science, Magic and Madness

[Dave Rogers]

There's a good article by Adam Gopnik in the BBC's online magazine - A Point of View: Science, Magic and Madness - that may be of interest to some here.

Galileo was a great scientist partly because he wasn't afraid to admit when he was wrong, argues Adam Gopnik, who only wishes some of the people who write to him could do the same.

A clear and simple explanation of what the scientific method is, why it's important, and how it differs from simply absorbing information.

Dave

 

[pakeha]

Thanks for the link!

 

[Gord_in_Toronto]

Thanks for the link!

Ditto.

 

[catsmate]

Despite his essay about Gailileo he doesn't seem to know much about him; stating that "he wasn't afraid to admit when he was wrong" is utter rubbish. Galileo's refusal to engage in reasoned discussion with contemporaries, his denial of evidence that contradicted his theories, his plagiarism and his conduct towards others is what caused most of his problems with the church.

 

[Bob Klase]

Despite his essay about Gailileo he doesn't seem to know much about him; stating that "he wasn't afraid to admit when he was wrong" is utter rubbish. Galileo's refusal to engage in reasoned discussion with contemporaries, his denial of evidence that contradicted his theories, his plagiarism and his conduct towards others is what caused most of his problems with the church.

Perhaps you should write him and tell him that.

 

[Gord_in_Toronto]

Perhaps you should write him and tell him that.

Isn't Galileo dead?

 

[CompusMentus]

A clear and simple explanation of what the scientific method is, why it's important, and how it differs from simply absorbing information.

Dave

Nice article. Some interesting stuff on that BBC site.

BTW Good to see you back Dave.

Compus