Summaries of books about Science & Math:
The Sports Gene
Inside the Science of Extraordinary Athletic Performance
David Epstein
The book explores the complex interplay between genetics and environment in shaping athletic ability, examining case studies and scientific research to understand the extent to which elite performance is a result of inherited traits versus hard work and training. It delves into topics such as the role of specific genes, the impact of early specialization, and the physiological differences that contribute to success in various sports.
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The Book of Why
The New Science of Cause and Effect
Judea Pearl|Dana Mackenzie
The book explores the science of causality, presenting a framework for understanding cause and effect relationships through a tool called causal inference. It delves into the history and principles of causality, discussing how to use statistical data and models to discern the underlying causes of observed phenomena.
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The Brain's Way of Healing
Remarkable Discoveries and Recoveries from the Frontiers of Neuroplasticity
Norman Doidge
The book explores the science of neuroplasticity, presenting case studies and research on how the brain can adapt, change, and even heal itself through non-invasive techniques. It delves into various therapies that harness this plasticity to treat brain-related conditions, offering hope for recovery from injuries and diseases once thought irreversible.
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Quadrivium
The Four Classical Liberal Arts of Number Geometry Music and Cosmology
John Martineau|Jason Martineau|Daud Sutton
The book explores the interconnectedness of the four classical liberal arts: arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy, delving into their historical significance and their unified approach to understanding the world. It presents mathematical concepts, geometric patterns, musical theory, and cosmological insights in a visually engaging manner, aiming to illustrate the harmony and wisdom of ancient knowledge systems.
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The Blind Watchmaker
Why the Evidence of Evolution Reveals a Universe without Design
Richard Dawkins
The book presents a detailed explanation of the theory of evolution, arguing that complex biological structures can arise through natural selection without the need for an intelligent designer. It uses the metaphor of a "blind watchmaker" to illustrate how random genetic mutations, when combined with non-random cumulative selection, can lead to the appearance of design.
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Structures
Or Why Things Don't Fall Down
J. E. Gordon
The book provides an accessible introduction to the principles of structural engineering, exploring the reasons behind the stability and resilience of various structures from bridges and buildings to human anatomy. It delves into the science of materials, the challenges of design, and the historical development of engineering techniques, all explained with a touch of humor and numerous real-world examples.
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Atlas of Human Anatomy E-Book
Digital eBook
Frank H. Netter
The book provides detailed medical illustrations of the human body, covering various systems such as musculoskeletal, nervous, and circulatory, with comprehensive labels and descriptions. It serves as a visual guide for students and professionals to understand the complex anatomy and relationships between different body parts.
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World of Wonders
In Praise of Fireflies, Whale Sharks, and Other Astonishments
Aimee Nezhukumatathil
The book is a collection of essays that blend memoir with nature writing, where the author reflects on her experiences with the natural world and how various plants and animals have shaped her understanding of life and human relationships. It weaves personal stories with facts about the natural world, celebrating the magic and lessons learned from fireflies, whale sharks, and other wonders of nature.
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Packing for Mars
The Curious Science of Life in the Void
Mary Roach
The book delves into the bizarre and rigorous aspects of space travel, exploring the everyday challenges astronauts face in zero gravity. It covers topics from the psychology of isolation to the peculiarities of space hygiene and the science behind surviving in such an extreme environment.
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The Story of the Human Body
Evolution, Health, and Disease
Daniel Lieberman
The book explores how the human body has evolved over millions of years, shaping our health and susceptibility to disease. It discusses the mismatch between our bodies' adaptations to past environments and the modern world, leading to contemporary health issues.
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