Neither Gods Nor Beasts: How Science Is Changing Who We Think We Are
''This work by scientist and historian Carlson (State Univ. of NY at Stony Brook) has a number of virtues. The first is his wish to address the notion that humans share so much with all other life, but differ in possessing reason. Second is his excellent account of the history and development of modern biology. Finally, Carlson looks at his vision of the future in terms of the interaction of society and science. In essence, he considers where humans should go and how absolutely critical the knowledge of science is for the developing millennium. Science plays a dominant role in the political arena, in the way religion and governments interact, and in the very personal way in which individual health is achieved. The basic tenets of most religions are at least similar, and perhaps science will help bring them together. Particularly well done is the author's examination of the current political stance, the way society uses resources and humankind's apparent difficulty in adapting to the changes in the world, with and without the public's conscious input. Carlson approaches the topic with understanding and wit, not criticizing anyone for their beliefs, at least openly. Well done. ''This is an excellent and timely reach across the divides among the sciences, arts, and humanities, and an extremely valuable contribution to our self-understanding.'' --The Quarterly Review of Biology''This is an excellent and timely reach across the divides among the sciences, arts, and humanities, and an extremely valuable contribution to our self-understanding.'' --The Quarterly Review of Biology