A review of “The Joy Of Science” by Jim Al-Khalili
Jameel “Jim” Al-Khalili is an Iraqi-British scientist who is professor of theoretical physics and chair in the public engagement in science at the University of Surrey. He is well-known for his writing and broadcasting in which he explains difficult concepts in an accessible manner. This short and simple book contains little new to anyone who has actually studied science (as I have but many haven’t), but it is an eloquent reminder to us all of the value of the scientific method and the importance of using this in our everyday lives.Eight chapters each make a powerful point:
- Something is either true or it isn’t and ultimately social constructivism is nonsense.
- The simplest explanation is not necessarily the correct one and the best theory is one that most accurately predicts the world.
- Mysteries are to be embraced but also to be solved because at the heart of science is curiosity.
- We’re all capable of digesting more complicated ideas than we may initially give ourselves credit for.
- Don’t value opinion over evidence and be open-minded but not empty-minded.
- Recognize your own biases – such as confirmation bias and belief perseverance – before judging the views of others.
- Don’t be afraid to change your mind, especially if the facts change.
- In the so-called era of ‘post-truth’, stand up for reality.