Review: Thoughtful, Intelligent Look at "Good" and "Bad" Science
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 19, 2013
"S3: Science, Statistics and Skepticism" is a short but earnest and well-thought-out treatise on good versus bad science and how we as a public consume and are mislead by studies and statistics.The book starts by saying its aim is to guide the reader though "popular pseudoscientific facts" and also has sections addressing bias and scientific theory versus scientific fact. Not having a science background, I found those very helpful and informative; it did change the way I thought about science."S3" then goes into specific "bad science" and "bad statistic" examples, such as the GMO studies and homeopathy, as well as correlation and causation. Using studies and logical reasoning, the author pokes holes in the "facts" and urges the reader to think for him- or herself. The book also addresses "good science" and its treatment of climate change and evolution, among other examples.Regardless of whether you ultimately agree with everything the author says (for example, I have trouble letting go of my belief about certain foods and how they affect the body and health), this book should stimulate intelligent, questioning thought and debate in its readers. Recommended for those who are interested in the current scientific debates of today (especially their impact on politics) and for those who want their own thought processes challenged or to learn something new.