Principles of Science and Ethical Guidelines for Scientific Conduct : A Concise Handbook (Paperback)

What are the principles of science? Surprisingly, the principles of science do not seem to be available as a well-defined set of principles, as noted in a book by National Academy of Sciences: "The basic and particular principles that guide scientific research practices exist primarily in an unwritten code of ethics. Although some have proposed that these principles should be written down and formalized, the principles and traditions of science are, for the most part, conveyed to successive generations of scientists through example, discussion, and informal education." Given the importance of science for human prosperity, this is an unsatisfactory situation, as expressed by Michael Crichton: The greatest challenge facing mankind is the challenge of distinguishing reality from fantasy, truth from propaganda. Perceiving the truth has always been a challenge to mankind, but in the information age (or as I think of it, the disinformation age) it takes on a special urgency and importance. This book is the result of the work by two individuals to cut into the core of science and provide a well-defined set of principles. Enjoy.