Summaries of books about Science & Math:
Maphead
Charting the Wide, Weird World of Geography Wonks
Ken Jennings
The book delves into the world of map enthusiasts and geographic aficionados, exploring the history of mapmaking, the appeal of maps, and the quirky subcultures that have developed around cartography. It features stories of geocachers, collectors of rare maps, and individuals with a profound passion for geography, illustrating how maps shape our understanding of the world.
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A Mathematician's Apology
G. H. Hardy
The book is a reflective essay on the aesthetics of mathematics and the creative process involved in pursuing mathematical research, written by a prominent British mathematician. It also serves as a defense and celebration of the pursuit of pure mathematics, contrasting its beauty with the practical applications of applied mathematics.
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The Secret Lives of Bats
My Adventures with the World's Most Misunderstood Mammals
Merlin Tuttle
The book chronicles the author's extensive experiences and adventures studying bats around the world, aiming to dispel myths and highlight the ecological importance of these often-misunderstood creatures. It combines personal anecdotes with scientific insights to showcase the diversity, behavior, and conservation challenges of bats.
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In Pursuit of the Unknown
17 Equations That Changed the World
Ian Stewart
The book delves into seventeen critical equations from the fields of mathematics, physics, and economics, explaining their development, significance, and the profound impact they have had on the world. It offers accessible insights into complex concepts that have shaped scientific thought and practical applications, from Newton's law of gravity to the Black-Scholes equation in finance.
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Vaccinated
From Cowpox to mRNA, the Remarkable Story of Vaccines
Paul A. Offit
The book chronicles the history and development of vaccines, from the early use of cowpox to protect against smallpox to the cutting-edge mRNA technology used in COVID-19 vaccines. It delves into the scientific breakthroughs, the individuals involved in vaccine discovery, and the impact of vaccination on public health.
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Hot Talk, Cold Science
Global Warming's Unfinished Debate
S. Fred Singer|David R. Legates|Anthony R. Lupo|William Happer
The book presents a skeptical view of the mainstream scientific consensus on climate change, arguing against the idea that human activities are the primary cause of global warming. It critiques climate models, discusses historical climate patterns, and questions the reliability of temperature records and predictions about future climate impacts.
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Voices in the Ocean
A Journey into the Wild and Haunting World of Dolphins
Susan Casey
The book delves into the complex relationship between humans and dolphins, exploring the enchanting world of these intelligent marine mammals through encounters and scientific research. It also examines the threats dolphins face from human activities and the various cultural and historical perspectives that shape our understanding of these creatures.
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Basic Math & Pre-Algebra For Dummies
Mark Zegarelli
The book serves as an introductory guide to fundamental mathematical concepts, covering topics such as arithmetic, fractions, decimals, and the basics of algebra. It provides clear explanations, practical examples, and exercises designed to help readers build a strong foundation in math and prepare for more advanced studies.
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Making Numbers Count
The Art and Science of Communicating Numbers
Chip Heath|Karla Starr
The book provides strategies for effectively communicating numerical information by translating complex data into understandable, relatable, and memorable stories. It emphasizes the importance of context, comparisons, and visuals to make statistics and figures resonate with audiences, enhancing their ability to comprehend and retain quantitative information.
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Secrets Of The Savanna
Twenty-three Years in the African Wilderness Unraveling the Mysteries ofElephants and People
Mark Owens|Delia Owens
The book recounts the experiences of two conservationists working in Zambia, detailing their efforts to save elephants from poaching and to understand the complex relationship between wildlife and human communities. It explores the challenges of conservation, the intricate social behavior of elephants, and the impact of human activity on the savanna ecosystem.
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