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Why Science Is Wrong About Life and Evolution: “The Invisible Gene” and Other Essays on Scientism.
Serious problems have long been apparent for the scientific understanding of life, in particular with regards to unusual behaviors. The general challenge unfolding for that understanding or vision, though, is in identifying the DNA basis for much of our inheritance. Without such a DNA/genetic basis science's vision of life and evolution does not work.
In parallel with such challenges are concerns about the general fallout from science's mechanistic vision of life. That vision, herein described as the cornerstone of scientism, has become an intellectual juggernaut. The latter half of this book takes on that juggernaut via critical examination of some of the works of Steven Pinker and Sam Harris.
In parallel with such challenges are concerns about the general fallout from science's mechanistic vision of life. That vision, herein described as the cornerstone of scientism, has become an intellectual juggernaut. The latter half of this book takes on that juggernaut via critical examination of some of the works of Steven Pinker and Sam Harris.
197 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 24, 2020
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May 9, 2021
I should add the caveat here that as a scientist, the title was a bit of a red flag. I should also add the title is a little misleading. It soon becomes apparent that Christopher is writing a polemic, mainly aimed at "scientism" and the concept that DNA does not determine our behaviour, nor all our features. Scientism is defined about half-way through, as "scientism here roughly corresponds to two aspects of modern science. First, there is the hype and arrogance associated with science . . . Secondly there is science's total confidence in the material model of life." OK, so some scientists are behaving badly. He makes the points well, but really that does not match the title.
The book comprises four separate essays and a conclusion. In the first he attacks the concept that everything, including consciousness, is determined by DNA. That is a straw-man argument. I know personally of no scientist who would even speculate on what drives consciousness. It remains a mystery. He further lashes his straw man by arguing that genetics has a negligible role in heart disease, stroke, autoimmune disease, obesity, cancer, athletics and more. Which leaves two questions: why should it, and why is he so sure? He will not have done a DNA analysis on sufficient subjects. Further, I have seen statements that provided athletes have properly prepared, the results of a sprint race depend on the ratio of leg bone dimensions. To be a major success in the NBA, height is a start. And to clarify, DNA does not appear to have a control function. RNA strands are coded from sections of it. RNA then codes for protein synthesis, etc. DNA is simply the master plan. Further, RNA is not especially stable, as those who have seen Pfizer's vaccine being stored at dry ice temperatures will recognize. The body involves an enormous number of equilibria between various species, and while DNA codes for what can be made, how much of each is determined down the line. If RNA does not code for enough protein, or, worse, when being coded it overlooked a key sequence in the DNA, then you get the deficiencies.
In the second chapter, scientists are criticized for ignoring the paranormal. Now, the examples he gives are very interesting, but they are anecdotal. He lashes us for not working on this, but overlooks the scientific method, which is to take a situation and try to test it with varied conditions. The problem with his examples is they are erratic, and you only know of them after they have happened. He links some examples of "far viewing" done for US spying agencies and they wouldn't lie would they. Yes, they would. If you have the choice of lying or exposing one of your agents, guess what is obvious.
The third chapter is essentially a long criticism of two books by Stephen Pinker. OK, maybe Pinker is wrong, but why do I care? Further, it is not clear from this exactly what Pinker is trying to say, other than science is good. To criticise, it is necessary to clearly state the premises you feel are wrong and then balance the evidence, but Christopher has a string of quotes and yes these do not look good, but everyone who writes usually manages something that, taken out of context, does not look good.
The fourth chapter criticises a book by Harris on Buddhism, enlightenment, etc. Sorry, but I have no interest in Buddhism and I am not going to meditate for 10,000 hrs to possibly gain (or not gain) enlightenment.
In the final chapter, he runs his conclusions, and then sends a few pages attacking scientists involved in quantum mechanics. And what is really scary is in this area with which I am actually familiar, he is remarkably perceptive, if somewhat acidic.
The book comprises four separate essays and a conclusion. In the first he attacks the concept that everything, including consciousness, is determined by DNA. That is a straw-man argument. I know personally of no scientist who would even speculate on what drives consciousness. It remains a mystery. He further lashes his straw man by arguing that genetics has a negligible role in heart disease, stroke, autoimmune disease, obesity, cancer, athletics and more. Which leaves two questions: why should it, and why is he so sure? He will not have done a DNA analysis on sufficient subjects. Further, I have seen statements that provided athletes have properly prepared, the results of a sprint race depend on the ratio of leg bone dimensions. To be a major success in the NBA, height is a start. And to clarify, DNA does not appear to have a control function. RNA strands are coded from sections of it. RNA then codes for protein synthesis, etc. DNA is simply the master plan. Further, RNA is not especially stable, as those who have seen Pfizer's vaccine being stored at dry ice temperatures will recognize. The body involves an enormous number of equilibria between various species, and while DNA codes for what can be made, how much of each is determined down the line. If RNA does not code for enough protein, or, worse, when being coded it overlooked a key sequence in the DNA, then you get the deficiencies.
In the second chapter, scientists are criticized for ignoring the paranormal. Now, the examples he gives are very interesting, but they are anecdotal. He lashes us for not working on this, but overlooks the scientific method, which is to take a situation and try to test it with varied conditions. The problem with his examples is they are erratic, and you only know of them after they have happened. He links some examples of "far viewing" done for US spying agencies and they wouldn't lie would they. Yes, they would. If you have the choice of lying or exposing one of your agents, guess what is obvious.
The third chapter is essentially a long criticism of two books by Stephen Pinker. OK, maybe Pinker is wrong, but why do I care? Further, it is not clear from this exactly what Pinker is trying to say, other than science is good. To criticise, it is necessary to clearly state the premises you feel are wrong and then balance the evidence, but Christopher has a string of quotes and yes these do not look good, but everyone who writes usually manages something that, taken out of context, does not look good.
The fourth chapter criticises a book by Harris on Buddhism, enlightenment, etc. Sorry, but I have no interest in Buddhism and I am not going to meditate for 10,000 hrs to possibly gain (or not gain) enlightenment.
In the final chapter, he runs his conclusions, and then sends a few pages attacking scientists involved in quantum mechanics. And what is really scary is in this area with which I am actually familiar, he is remarkably perceptive, if somewhat acidic.
June 17, 2021
5.0 out of 5 stars Something deeply hidden to explore
Review
Ted Christopher lives in Rochester, New York. He worked in some academic-based, bio-medical ultrasound research. Formal education has been mostly technical and includes a PhD in Electrical Engineering. Against this background he tried to make sense of some basic aspects of life, perhaps influenced by his involvement with Buddhist practices and more generally his religious instincts. He has been involved with daily meditational and Buddhist’s practices for over 40 years.
A wide range of reference books and papers he has applied in his research are listed in 7 pages at the end of this well-researched book. A scientist and researcher will find the various sober and detailed perspectives worthy of a gold allocate.
The book consists of four essays on contemporary scientism. The first two directly challenge the scientific vision of life and the latter two critique two popular extensions of the associated scientism. This is a highly technical book touching on the evolution of science-
primarily in the advances in cell biology, systems biology and computing to take us there. Questioning the scientific vision of life is for the most part not happening, and enlightenment in this regard is essential.
Can scientific materialism be capable of explaining the universe in its totality? Christopher undertakes to challenge the “scientific vision of life”, and such attempt and has been exposed as a failure. Christopher devotes much attention to the field of genetics. He worked in biomedical research and suggests that biologists/geneticists are effectively in the front lines of the defence of materialism.
The author examines the scientific belief that life is completely describable in terms of physics and that it dictates that DNA fulfil the heredity role. He explores the ways scientific belief clouds discussions of environmental sustainability, race, intelligence, culture, gender and even meditation.
The author mentions some limitations from a philosophical, religious and neuro-science perspective, exposing the vulnerabilities and limitations of DNA and submits to a commitment to intellectual openness. His chief goal is to demonstrate how the scientific community focusses on DNA as a theory and wishes to encourage researchers to start looking elsewhere for explanations.
He investigates various perspectives on the philosophical fact that we are born with a spiritual perspective and that should be more commonly known and wondered about. Test if you are interested in this intelligible content ? Do you think that looking at some associated images would prod you to contemplation, and deepen your understanding of what it means to be human and of your place in nature? This book will add value to your existing knowledge.
The author adds a few simple examples from his own life. “If psychic abilities are real and somehow consistent with the scientific model then they must have a basis in our nervous system and also have some evolutionary/DNA support. I think the hegemony of science and the rigidity surrounding the materialist vision has greatly reduced the communication of such mysterious occurrences.”
In his other book published, “ A Hole in Science”, he considered a number of intellectual mysteries including, prodigies. These characteristics are remarkable and certainly would seem to have been largely innate.
More questions are posed to investigate:
“Are the Laws of Nature Fixed?”, “Is Matter Unconscious?”, as well as “Is all biological Inheritance Material?” What about paranormal or non-materialist aspect? What about reincarnation? Sean Carroll, theoretical physicist and one of this world’s most celebrated writers on science, rewrites the history of 20th century physics. Already hailed as a masterpiece, “Something Deeply Hidden”, shows that facing up to the essential puzzle of quantum mechanics, utterly transforms how we think about space and time. Rarely does a book so fully reorganize how we think about our place in the universe[s]. We are on the threshold of a new understanding - of where we are in the cosmos[s], and what we are made of.
Debunking theories, studying reports involving psychics or intuitive-s are amazing, as some unreligious observations about possible post-death experiences. It is the author's sense that modern educated people have tended to block off a lot of older useful insights and also perspectives on life. Buddhist practice has for decades been pushed in a largely areligious fashion with significant overlapping efforts to tie the practice to science and moreover an intellectual perspective.
One of his studied contributors, Harris whom he credits that his book is trying to legitimatize experiences which have a long history of occurrences in meditational and mystical traditions. Christopher participates in enlightenment commentary, offers counter perspectives following an inherent sense of responsibility, humility, and deeper perspective on life and death, and techniques that produce long-lasting changes in attention, emotion, cognition, and pain perception, and these correlate with both structural and functional changes in the brain. This field of research is quickly growing, as is our understanding of self-awareness and related phenomena. Given recent advances in neuro-imaging technology, we no longer face a practical impediment to investigating spiritual insights in the context of science.
This book is highly sophisticated and informative.
Scarlett Jensen
10 June 2021
Review
Ted Christopher lives in Rochester, New York. He worked in some academic-based, bio-medical ultrasound research. Formal education has been mostly technical and includes a PhD in Electrical Engineering. Against this background he tried to make sense of some basic aspects of life, perhaps influenced by his involvement with Buddhist practices and more generally his religious instincts. He has been involved with daily meditational and Buddhist’s practices for over 40 years.
A wide range of reference books and papers he has applied in his research are listed in 7 pages at the end of this well-researched book. A scientist and researcher will find the various sober and detailed perspectives worthy of a gold allocate.
The book consists of four essays on contemporary scientism. The first two directly challenge the scientific vision of life and the latter two critique two popular extensions of the associated scientism. This is a highly technical book touching on the evolution of science-
primarily in the advances in cell biology, systems biology and computing to take us there. Questioning the scientific vision of life is for the most part not happening, and enlightenment in this regard is essential.
Can scientific materialism be capable of explaining the universe in its totality? Christopher undertakes to challenge the “scientific vision of life”, and such attempt and has been exposed as a failure. Christopher devotes much attention to the field of genetics. He worked in biomedical research and suggests that biologists/geneticists are effectively in the front lines of the defence of materialism.
The author examines the scientific belief that life is completely describable in terms of physics and that it dictates that DNA fulfil the heredity role. He explores the ways scientific belief clouds discussions of environmental sustainability, race, intelligence, culture, gender and even meditation.
The author mentions some limitations from a philosophical, religious and neuro-science perspective, exposing the vulnerabilities and limitations of DNA and submits to a commitment to intellectual openness. His chief goal is to demonstrate how the scientific community focusses on DNA as a theory and wishes to encourage researchers to start looking elsewhere for explanations.
He investigates various perspectives on the philosophical fact that we are born with a spiritual perspective and that should be more commonly known and wondered about. Test if you are interested in this intelligible content ? Do you think that looking at some associated images would prod you to contemplation, and deepen your understanding of what it means to be human and of your place in nature? This book will add value to your existing knowledge.
The author adds a few simple examples from his own life. “If psychic abilities are real and somehow consistent with the scientific model then they must have a basis in our nervous system and also have some evolutionary/DNA support. I think the hegemony of science and the rigidity surrounding the materialist vision has greatly reduced the communication of such mysterious occurrences.”
In his other book published, “ A Hole in Science”, he considered a number of intellectual mysteries including, prodigies. These characteristics are remarkable and certainly would seem to have been largely innate.
More questions are posed to investigate:
“Are the Laws of Nature Fixed?”, “Is Matter Unconscious?”, as well as “Is all biological Inheritance Material?” What about paranormal or non-materialist aspect? What about reincarnation? Sean Carroll, theoretical physicist and one of this world’s most celebrated writers on science, rewrites the history of 20th century physics. Already hailed as a masterpiece, “Something Deeply Hidden”, shows that facing up to the essential puzzle of quantum mechanics, utterly transforms how we think about space and time. Rarely does a book so fully reorganize how we think about our place in the universe[s]. We are on the threshold of a new understanding - of where we are in the cosmos[s], and what we are made of.
Debunking theories, studying reports involving psychics or intuitive-s are amazing, as some unreligious observations about possible post-death experiences. It is the author's sense that modern educated people have tended to block off a lot of older useful insights and also perspectives on life. Buddhist practice has for decades been pushed in a largely areligious fashion with significant overlapping efforts to tie the practice to science and moreover an intellectual perspective.
One of his studied contributors, Harris whom he credits that his book is trying to legitimatize experiences which have a long history of occurrences in meditational and mystical traditions. Christopher participates in enlightenment commentary, offers counter perspectives following an inherent sense of responsibility, humility, and deeper perspective on life and death, and techniques that produce long-lasting changes in attention, emotion, cognition, and pain perception, and these correlate with both structural and functional changes in the brain. This field of research is quickly growing, as is our understanding of self-awareness and related phenomena. Given recent advances in neuro-imaging technology, we no longer face a practical impediment to investigating spiritual insights in the context of science.
This book is highly sophisticated and informative.
Scarlett Jensen
10 June 2021
March 1, 2021
While I agree with a lot of what this author says, I found this book disappointing in many respects. To begin with the title is misleading. For the most part the book lacks focus and seems to drift all over the place. It starts with a section about how dna does not really explain much about life. The writing in this section is often obtuse, full of references and parenthetical comment, even though the arguments are rather simple and straightforward. I think the section would have been more effective if it were written in a simple straightforward style.
The next section is more well-written. It is about phenomenon that science can’t explain and often chooses to just ignore.
The next two sections are vindictive arguments against two other writers. To me, Christopher goes overboard here and the often just seems a bit too obsessed, and even angry and spiteful. One of the authors he vents against is Steven Pinker. I have read a Pinker book, and I found it interesting in the information it presented though I felt that Pinker failed in trying to present a valid philosophical position. Christopher seems to find nothing at all positive about Pinker’s book, and it often seems that he imagines Pinker as the devil incarnate. I was unacquainted with the other writer that Christopher vents against. More than half the book is spent spouting off against these two writers. The focus of the book as stated in the title seems to get lost along the way. I was very much put off by this drift into what often seemed an unfocused angry diatribe. Christopher does offer some interesting comment on meditation, but tends often to say too much about what other writers are wrong about.
It is possible that I am not correctly interpreting what Christopher says. Perhaps he is not really angry just a bit over-obsessed with correcting others. His writing style is often overly complicated, requiring multiple re-readings of a sentence. I generally like books on the subjects he is interested in, and got several ideas of other books to read from this book.
The next section is more well-written. It is about phenomenon that science can’t explain and often chooses to just ignore.
The next two sections are vindictive arguments against two other writers. To me, Christopher goes overboard here and the often just seems a bit too obsessed, and even angry and spiteful. One of the authors he vents against is Steven Pinker. I have read a Pinker book, and I found it interesting in the information it presented though I felt that Pinker failed in trying to present a valid philosophical position. Christopher seems to find nothing at all positive about Pinker’s book, and it often seems that he imagines Pinker as the devil incarnate. I was unacquainted with the other writer that Christopher vents against. More than half the book is spent spouting off against these two writers. The focus of the book as stated in the title seems to get lost along the way. I was very much put off by this drift into what often seemed an unfocused angry diatribe. Christopher does offer some interesting comment on meditation, but tends often to say too much about what other writers are wrong about.
It is possible that I am not correctly interpreting what Christopher says. Perhaps he is not really angry just a bit over-obsessed with correcting others. His writing style is often overly complicated, requiring multiple re-readings of a sentence. I generally like books on the subjects he is interested in, and got several ideas of other books to read from this book.
April 30, 2021
"Why Science is Wrong About Life and Evolution" is at the forefront of current scientific knowledge; I am impressed by Ted Christopher's obvious familiarity with his field. On page 6 he states "The most important point of this book... is that the reliance on a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) basis for the specification of life and its evolution should have been questioned all along and now is over a decade into a spectacular failure."
Chapter one is the best, making the case that our current culture of scientism has developed some serious blind spots. Chapter two describes some pretty convincing exceptions to the notion that DNA alone conveys all the information necessary to create life. While this to me suggests that morphic resonance may play a role in perpetuating some kind of species memory, Ted Christopher never makes any positive statement to identify any alternative to the scientism he is tearing down. A lot of what he says also reminds me of the monadic idealism Amit Goswami has written about, but Ted Christopher specifically says in the preface that he's not going to get into quantum mechanics, sophisticated philosophical arguments, or paranormal phenomena. I would have preferred a book that did, or that suggested something real instead of merely tearing down the ongoing popular consensus. On the plus side, the author who eventually writes that book will be able to take a lot of citations out of this one.
Chapter three is all a response to an essay written by Dr. Steven Pinker, and having not read the original essay I am at a loss to understand what he is saying. Ted Christopher is clearly brilliant when it comes to science, and a lot of his writing flies right over my head. Chapter four is mostly focused on attacking the notion that meditation can be beneficial; I have to wonder what is the point in that? I have not read Ted Christopher's first book, but I think this is a noble attempt at a second, and I hope he will continue writing on this topic.
Chapter one is the best, making the case that our current culture of scientism has developed some serious blind spots. Chapter two describes some pretty convincing exceptions to the notion that DNA alone conveys all the information necessary to create life. While this to me suggests that morphic resonance may play a role in perpetuating some kind of species memory, Ted Christopher never makes any positive statement to identify any alternative to the scientism he is tearing down. A lot of what he says also reminds me of the monadic idealism Amit Goswami has written about, but Ted Christopher specifically says in the preface that he's not going to get into quantum mechanics, sophisticated philosophical arguments, or paranormal phenomena. I would have preferred a book that did, or that suggested something real instead of merely tearing down the ongoing popular consensus. On the plus side, the author who eventually writes that book will be able to take a lot of citations out of this one.
Chapter three is all a response to an essay written by Dr. Steven Pinker, and having not read the original essay I am at a loss to understand what he is saying. Ted Christopher is clearly brilliant when it comes to science, and a lot of his writing flies right over my head. Chapter four is mostly focused on attacking the notion that meditation can be beneficial; I have to wonder what is the point in that? I have not read Ted Christopher's first book, but I think this is a noble attempt at a second, and I hope he will continue writing on this topic.
October 14, 2020
Interesting essays about Scientism, however less about evolution.
When I am confronted with a book and a title containing references to science and to evolution, I am inclined to assume that it will either be a work supporting evolution as a theory, or conversely, criticizing it and offering an alternative. This book contains some interesting discussions about science and religion, including philosophy and some topics that are popular in the world today and I could write several pages of comments about many of the topics that are discussed. Of course, this is not practical and I am forced in summary to simply state that although this book has some interesting insights about life and the scientific process, it does not specifically address the theory of evolution and its relationship to the DNA molecule, which is the basis of complex organic life on earth. Initially the question as to whether behavior and characteristics are inherited by organisms, notably humans, through a genetic process involving genes and the DNA molecule, is the primary topic of the book. This is followed by discussions questioning the scientific process and includes several topics, from ideas about dark matter in the universe, to climate warming, and social trends in the world today. Some popular subjects such as meditation and individuals born with unique abilities are also discussed. Unfortunately, none of this touches upon the concept of the theory of evolution, nor that there is positive proof that DNA has little to do with evolution. This is an interesting book, however, I found that it has more to say about the author's perceptions of life and the scientific process in general, but not much about evolution, or an alternative theory or concept.
When I am confronted with a book and a title containing references to science and to evolution, I am inclined to assume that it will either be a work supporting evolution as a theory, or conversely, criticizing it and offering an alternative. This book contains some interesting discussions about science and religion, including philosophy and some topics that are popular in the world today and I could write several pages of comments about many of the topics that are discussed. Of course, this is not practical and I am forced in summary to simply state that although this book has some interesting insights about life and the scientific process, it does not specifically address the theory of evolution and its relationship to the DNA molecule, which is the basis of complex organic life on earth. Initially the question as to whether behavior and characteristics are inherited by organisms, notably humans, through a genetic process involving genes and the DNA molecule, is the primary topic of the book. This is followed by discussions questioning the scientific process and includes several topics, from ideas about dark matter in the universe, to climate warming, and social trends in the world today. Some popular subjects such as meditation and individuals born with unique abilities are also discussed. Unfortunately, none of this touches upon the concept of the theory of evolution, nor that there is positive proof that DNA has little to do with evolution. This is an interesting book, however, I found that it has more to say about the author's perceptions of life and the scientific process in general, but not much about evolution, or an alternative theory or concept.
October 16, 2020
Life is Where the Real Mysteries Are
Why Science is Wrong About Life and Evolution: "The Invisible Gene" And Other Essays on Scientism by Ted Christopher is a well-written and well-thought-out narrative that takes the reader on a logical journey of thinking about who we are.
There are four specific chapters and a conclusion. The latter half of the book relies on the critical examination of the essay works of Steven Pinker and Sam Harris. Additionally, the author begins the debate by clarifying what the essays do not involve.
It seems that the author's intent is not to debunk science and the premise of scientism with scientism being defined as the belief in the overwhelming and predominant power of the knowledge and techniques of science.
It does, however, appear to marry the understanding of science with other associated factors that combine with science to understand who we are. Some of those additional factors include such variables as the factors of race, intelligence, and even the discipline of meditation.
The expertly penned narrative suggests that something divine or extra lies behind our existence and DNA.
Of particular interest was the identification of one such variable; that being accomplished through the introduction of the anomaly of being a Savant.
Why Science is Wrong About Life and Evolution: "The Invisible Gene" And Other Essays on Scientism by Ted Christopher consists of four essays on contemporary scientism. The first two directly challenge the scientific vision of life and the latter two critique two popular extensions of associated scientism.
The book is a quality read and is well laid out and understandable. The book will most certainly stimulate one's mind as it leads towards a logical conclusion.
Why Science is Wrong About Life and Evolution: "The Invisible Gene" And Other Essays on Scientism by Ted Christopher is a well-written and well-thought-out narrative that takes the reader on a logical journey of thinking about who we are.
There are four specific chapters and a conclusion. The latter half of the book relies on the critical examination of the essay works of Steven Pinker and Sam Harris. Additionally, the author begins the debate by clarifying what the essays do not involve.
It seems that the author's intent is not to debunk science and the premise of scientism with scientism being defined as the belief in the overwhelming and predominant power of the knowledge and techniques of science.
It does, however, appear to marry the understanding of science with other associated factors that combine with science to understand who we are. Some of those additional factors include such variables as the factors of race, intelligence, and even the discipline of meditation.
The expertly penned narrative suggests that something divine or extra lies behind our existence and DNA.
Of particular interest was the identification of one such variable; that being accomplished through the introduction of the anomaly of being a Savant.
Why Science is Wrong About Life and Evolution: "The Invisible Gene" And Other Essays on Scientism by Ted Christopher consists of four essays on contemporary scientism. The first two directly challenge the scientific vision of life and the latter two critique two popular extensions of associated scientism.
The book is a quality read and is well laid out and understandable. The book will most certainly stimulate one's mind as it leads towards a logical conclusion.
December 3, 2020
Why Science Is Wrong About Life and Evolution: “The Invisible Gene” and Other Essays on Scientism is written by debut author Tom Christopher. In his new book, the author starts from the premise that the big mistake science has made is explaining everything about human life with materialistic fundaments. He asserts that materialism is science religion and that the problem with that vision is that it identifies the DNA/genetic basis to explain all our inheritance. Christopher believes that science actual vision is wrong and obtuse and that that understanding of life has a fundamental prejudice that fails to explain the mysteries about the heritability of innate characteristics, like cultural predilections or unusual people who are born with unlearned special knowledge, for example. He also believes in the reincarnation of the soul and proposes that science should take in consideration this religious point of view to properly understand life and evolution.
The book challenges the reader to look for answers about evolution outside scientific’s materialistic vision of life. The author also examines in an interesting way the relationship between religion and science. He did a great job with the narrative because it was clear and very well written. It was not a long read as it contains less than two hundred pages, and as I was so immersed in the reading, I finished it in a couple of sittings. I think that people who are religious and those who are not will enjoy this well written masterpiece like I did.
The book challenges the reader to look for answers about evolution outside scientific’s materialistic vision of life. The author also examines in an interesting way the relationship between religion and science. He did a great job with the narrative because it was clear and very well written. It was not a long read as it contains less than two hundred pages, and as I was so immersed in the reading, I finished it in a couple of sittings. I think that people who are religious and those who are not will enjoy this well written masterpiece like I did.
June 11, 2021
I have long question the absoluteness of DNA, largely because if you do read the reports about the breakthroughs you can see holes so large that jumbo jets can be flown through them. Primary to me is how small the samplings are to "prove" a DNA trait, not to mention that the sample populations cannot be determined to be pure to begin with. Add to this the zealot dogma of science as being all-knowing and scientists as being infallible deities. The cult of science can be likened to Middle Age Catholicism in which neither the Church, nor her 'holy men' could be questioned or challenged.
Christopher points out that even in their labs they have tunnel vision, forget looking at the whole world with open eyes. This inability to even allow questions that might have physical, tangible, answers to exist and to crucify any one displaying such blatant impropriety has limited and distorted our understanding and knowledge of all things. Christopher points out that science has become a religion of materialism that only the physical attributes have value and so much so in fact that they are the only value.
We are being fed lines by the experts about everything about us and regarding us is "in the DNA". The problem is that the research consistently fails to support that absolute and yet science still beats that drum so loudly as to drowned out anyone pointing that out or questioning it. Ironically, we used to consider those that could not understand the things that they could not see for themselves to be ignorant, currently we do not question those that will not attempt to understand anything they cannot see in their petri dishes.
Christopher presents valid arguments against the scientism of today. The work can be a challenging read, especially considering the author's abusive love of the apostrophes. You will come across sentences that you have to decipher. Here's your key....if the 's blows your mind, drop it and or add in 'has', that should make those sentences readable. In spite of the proof errors the information is worth the time.
Christopher points out that even in their labs they have tunnel vision, forget looking at the whole world with open eyes. This inability to even allow questions that might have physical, tangible, answers to exist and to crucify any one displaying such blatant impropriety has limited and distorted our understanding and knowledge of all things. Christopher points out that science has become a religion of materialism that only the physical attributes have value and so much so in fact that they are the only value.
We are being fed lines by the experts about everything about us and regarding us is "in the DNA". The problem is that the research consistently fails to support that absolute and yet science still beats that drum so loudly as to drowned out anyone pointing that out or questioning it. Ironically, we used to consider those that could not understand the things that they could not see for themselves to be ignorant, currently we do not question those that will not attempt to understand anything they cannot see in their petri dishes.
Christopher presents valid arguments against the scientism of today. The work can be a challenging read, especially considering the author's abusive love of the apostrophes. You will come across sentences that you have to decipher. Here's your key....if the 's blows your mind, drop it and or add in 'has', that should make those sentences readable. In spite of the proof errors the information is worth the time.
August 14, 2021
The first half of the book reviews various literature demonstrating that our present scientific understanding of DNA does not lend itself to explaining all possible human shape and behavior. The second half critiques several other materialist writings including those from Steven Pinker. I don't doubt that our understanding of DNA is elementary. And Pinker clearly needs some critics. I have to say, though, that our understanding of DNA is rapidly expanding at present. Several of the labs I've visited in at Virginia Tech are making good progress on the 3D DNA folding structures.
The author seems to be coming from a standpoint of "spirituality is outside of reality", that religion and science are different and always will be. For me personally, I worship a God in this universe made of real material. I expect science and religion to converge, as truth is truth no matter how it is attained. Perhaps that makes me more forgiving of our present failures in scientific understanding.
Overall, I found the tone of the book to be quite negative. Trying to prove a positive by corralling the complete negative list can be wearisome. I would recommend "Science Set Free" for most people interested in this topic. This book is only for the more serious critics, and it seems to be building on "Science Set Free" in many of its comments.
The author seems to be coming from a standpoint of "spirituality is outside of reality", that religion and science are different and always will be. For me personally, I worship a God in this universe made of real material. I expect science and religion to converge, as truth is truth no matter how it is attained. Perhaps that makes me more forgiving of our present failures in scientific understanding.
Overall, I found the tone of the book to be quite negative. Trying to prove a positive by corralling the complete negative list can be wearisome. I would recommend "Science Set Free" for most people interested in this topic. This book is only for the more serious critics, and it seems to be building on "Science Set Free" in many of its comments.
April 4, 2021
I found this book to be more of a series of articles mushed into one book. There were quite a few times where the author would personally make too many statements against influential scientists of this era.
With that being said, I do think there are some valid points. I do agree that "scientism" is not the solution to the pressing issues in the world right now. There are several instances where devious things were done, purely in the name of science, and they didn't point the world in the right direction.
This book echoes themes similar to Richard Sheldrake's The Science Delusion and Sabine Hossenfelder's Lost in Math: How Beauty Leads Physics Astray
There are two main points that Christopher makes :
1. Science tells us that pretty much everything about us is a result of our genes and the environment. However, those two factors simply cannot explain certain phenomena.
- He gives examples of the accuracy of polygenic predictions varied by group.
- If environmental contribution is of limited influence, and monozygotic twins show little divergence via separate upbringings, then how much of a basis does the commonly accepted unique environmental factor really have?
With that being said, I do think there are some valid points. I do agree that "scientism" is not the solution to the pressing issues in the world right now. There are several instances where devious things were done, purely in the name of science, and they didn't point the world in the right direction.
This book echoes themes similar to Richard Sheldrake's The Science Delusion and Sabine Hossenfelder's Lost in Math: How Beauty Leads Physics Astray
There are two main points that Christopher makes :
1. Science tells us that pretty much everything about us is a result of our genes and the environment. However, those two factors simply cannot explain certain phenomena.
- He gives examples of the accuracy of polygenic predictions varied by group.
- If environmental contribution is of limited influence, and monozygotic twins show little divergence via separate upbringings, then how much of a basis does the commonly accepted unique environmental factor really have?
October 20, 2020
Although you may not be familiar with scientific terms or do not know specific theories, this book is completely understandable for the aimed readers. Its writing style is clear and simple, and the author's argument is free of technical complexity. I particularly enjoyed the perspective the author had in his approach to writing the book, as every idea is perfectly developed.
In “Why Science Is Wrong About Life and Evolution”, Ted Christopher makes a theoretical critique of scientism, by delving the main idea that the reliance on DNA basis for the specification of life and its evolution should have been questioned and now is into failure. He develops this by four essays: The first two directly challenge the scientific vision of life and the latter two critique two popular extensions of the associated scientism, the work of Steven Pinker and Sam Harris.
This book encourages readers to "start looking elsewhere for explanations”, not only in Scientific Materialism answer to all behavior. The benefits of critical thinking are widely known, and if you are interested in that path, you shouldn´t miss this unique read.
In “Why Science Is Wrong About Life and Evolution”, Ted Christopher makes a theoretical critique of scientism, by delving the main idea that the reliance on DNA basis for the specification of life and its evolution should have been questioned and now is into failure. He develops this by four essays: The first two directly challenge the scientific vision of life and the latter two critique two popular extensions of the associated scientism, the work of Steven Pinker and Sam Harris.
This book encourages readers to "start looking elsewhere for explanations”, not only in Scientific Materialism answer to all behavior. The benefits of critical thinking are widely known, and if you are interested in that path, you shouldn´t miss this unique read.
October 23, 2020
It is a highly absorbing read.
What I found interesting about this book is one of the terms that the author used in the title. That is why I started reading: “Why science is Wrong about Life and Evolution: “The invisible Gene” and other essays on Scientism” written by Ted Christopher. I mean, isn´t it curious to learn about the “invisible gene”? I believe it is. Actually, the proposed idea was worth reading.
This is a concise and very interesting book which mentions the importance and the role that the DNA plays in every human-being's behaviour, personality and evolution. This is an original insight.
Each chapter and each essay deals with important matters connected to the topic. Everything is well-explained and backed- up with valuable information. The author´s interests and concerns are reflected in this brief book which, from my view, make the reading much more genuine and a real-page turner. I learned lots of things about science, especially this so called “invisible gene”. It will definitely leave readers with a great deal to think about. I thoroughly recommend to curious readers.
What I found interesting about this book is one of the terms that the author used in the title. That is why I started reading: “Why science is Wrong about Life and Evolution: “The invisible Gene” and other essays on Scientism” written by Ted Christopher. I mean, isn´t it curious to learn about the “invisible gene”? I believe it is. Actually, the proposed idea was worth reading.
This is a concise and very interesting book which mentions the importance and the role that the DNA plays in every human-being's behaviour, personality and evolution. This is an original insight.
Each chapter and each essay deals with important matters connected to the topic. Everything is well-explained and backed- up with valuable information. The author´s interests and concerns are reflected in this brief book which, from my view, make the reading much more genuine and a real-page turner. I learned lots of things about science, especially this so called “invisible gene”. It will definitely leave readers with a great deal to think about. I thoroughly recommend to curious readers.
October 26, 2020
Why Science is Wrong About Life and Evolution: “The Invisible Gene” and Other Essays on Scientism by Ted Christopher is a very insightful intriguing read. It is clear the author has put a lot into this book and not only keeps the readers attention but makes the reader think about the topic of who exactly we really are.
It isn’t the longest read and from the title you do think it will be more about evolution. However, once you start reading you realise that this isn’t the case and there is a lot more to it. A variety of topics are covered though including science, religion and philosophy. A lot of what is discussed is topical to what’s happening in every day life now. Each chapter covers something different and is made up of a few different essays. Chapter 1 The Invisible Gene, Chapter 2 How Could Science Have Overlooked This, Chapter 3 The Spirit of Scientism - Steven Pinker, Chapter 4 Not Awakening: Sam Harris & Scientific Buddhism and the conclusion as well as the closing of the collection of essays in Chapter 5.
Whether you’re religious or not this was a interesting collection of essays to make you think while reading and long after, a great job for sure.
It isn’t the longest read and from the title you do think it will be more about evolution. However, once you start reading you realise that this isn’t the case and there is a lot more to it. A variety of topics are covered though including science, religion and philosophy. A lot of what is discussed is topical to what’s happening in every day life now. Each chapter covers something different and is made up of a few different essays. Chapter 1 The Invisible Gene, Chapter 2 How Could Science Have Overlooked This, Chapter 3 The Spirit of Scientism - Steven Pinker, Chapter 4 Not Awakening: Sam Harris & Scientific Buddhism and the conclusion as well as the closing of the collection of essays in Chapter 5.
Whether you’re religious or not this was a interesting collection of essays to make you think while reading and long after, a great job for sure.
October 24, 2020
In this book “Why Science is Wrong About Life and Evolution” author Ted Christopher has compiled a series of essays where he explains his beliefs through an interesting mixture of science, philosophy and religion. The author builds a case against the scientific view of life as only a matter of biology and chemistry and states that there is a lot more beyond those aspects. He considers and criticises genomic research and how science is failing to explain some genetic phenomena. The reader will also find that the writer has some insightful opinions about materialism and scientism.
I have found this book really compelling. The author presents a writing style that is quite simple and straightforward. This makes some concepts, which may be uncommon for people who are not into science, very easy to understand. The exposition of the topics and the explanations are clear and extremely logical, readers will have a hard time putting these essays down. I recommend it for anyone who is ready to challenge some scientific “truths”.
I have found this book really compelling. The author presents a writing style that is quite simple and straightforward. This makes some concepts, which may be uncommon for people who are not into science, very easy to understand. The exposition of the topics and the explanations are clear and extremely logical, readers will have a hard time putting these essays down. I recommend it for anyone who is ready to challenge some scientific “truths”.
October 25, 2020
Even though it may seem like we would find some objective information about evolution, life and science, this book contains the author’s thinking in this whole matter. We get to experience his view and opinion regarding these issues. And at the same time, Ted Christopher guides us on this adventure about questioning who we are besides the DNA.
I think this book will be enjoyed by all those readers out there hungry of answers, and people who like being on debates about the involvement of science in our lives. In this collection of essays, like I mentioned before, you’ll get the author’s observations and views.
I would recommend having a previous knowledge or background information about the topics the author debates on, to fully acknowledge and comprehend all the things the he wants to transmit. That being said, I think young-adults or adults in general would enjoy this read. I'm giving Why science is Wrong About Life and Evolution: “The Invisible Gene” and Other Essays on Scientism four stars.
I think this book will be enjoyed by all those readers out there hungry of answers, and people who like being on debates about the involvement of science in our lives. In this collection of essays, like I mentioned before, you’ll get the author’s observations and views.
I would recommend having a previous knowledge or background information about the topics the author debates on, to fully acknowledge and comprehend all the things the he wants to transmit. That being said, I think young-adults or adults in general would enjoy this read. I'm giving Why science is Wrong About Life and Evolution: “The Invisible Gene” and Other Essays on Scientism four stars.
October 22, 2020
Have you ever wondered which the problems for the scientific understanding of life are? If you haven´t, this book is for you.
Ted Christopher is the author of “Why science is wrong about life and evolution”, a compilation of essays which present a general case against the scientific vision of life and some consequences to that vision. The most important topic of this book is the reliance on DNA basis for the specification of life and its evolution.
I must admit that I was worried about the language included in the essays but, to my surprise, there is not sophisticated vocabulary in it. It is a very understandable book and you do not need to have a degree in science to comprehend it.
I really liked the view author Christopher had in this approach, and I think he made a good point on it. He is concise and clear, and for me that makes him a very clever writer. I would recommend this compilation of essays to anyone wanting to know more about science and life.
Ted Christopher is the author of “Why science is wrong about life and evolution”, a compilation of essays which present a general case against the scientific vision of life and some consequences to that vision. The most important topic of this book is the reliance on DNA basis for the specification of life and its evolution.
I must admit that I was worried about the language included in the essays but, to my surprise, there is not sophisticated vocabulary in it. It is a very understandable book and you do not need to have a degree in science to comprehend it.
I really liked the view author Christopher had in this approach, and I think he made a good point on it. He is concise and clear, and for me that makes him a very clever writer. I would recommend this compilation of essays to anyone wanting to know more about science and life.
October 23, 2020
This well-thought narrative by Ted Christopher has hooked me up right from the first page since I believe evolution is a topic that still has many nooks to be explored.
The author divided Why Science Is Wrong About Life and Evolution into five amazingly crafted chapters, the last being the conclusion. Even though the theme seems to be difficult to understand, Christopher has employed an easy-to-follow narrative style and has employed simple expressions to shed some light on such a controversial topic as the understanding of life is.
This book contains interesting and thought-provoking discussions on science and religion, among other topics. Almost at the end of it, the focus is placed on examining an essay penned by Steven Pinker and Sam Harris.
I would suggest this read to any type of adult reader, but especially to those eager to delve into a world which seems to be hard to understand but it is more interesting than the majority of us think.
The author divided Why Science Is Wrong About Life and Evolution into five amazingly crafted chapters, the last being the conclusion. Even though the theme seems to be difficult to understand, Christopher has employed an easy-to-follow narrative style and has employed simple expressions to shed some light on such a controversial topic as the understanding of life is.
This book contains interesting and thought-provoking discussions on science and religion, among other topics. Almost at the end of it, the focus is placed on examining an essay penned by Steven Pinker and Sam Harris.
I would suggest this read to any type of adult reader, but especially to those eager to delve into a world which seems to be hard to understand but it is more interesting than the majority of us think.
October 23, 2020
“Why Science Is Wrong About Life and Evolution: “The Invisible Gene” and Other Essays on Scientism” is a book written by Ted Christopher. This piece of writing is really interesting because it opens your mind and gives you other perspective about the beginning of life and evolution, and that is something that really calls my attention.
This book tells about a different perspective from the scientific vision of life. It is divided into four essays about contemporary scientism. The first two question the scientific vision of life and the last ones disapprove two well-known extensions of the associated scientism. Something I really liked about this book is that it is an easy read, it hasn’t got technical language and it doesn’t talk about philosophy (something I find really boring).
From my point of view, this book is a before and after in life because it will change the way you see some approaches about it. It’s a must read. I'm going to give it five deserved stars.
This book tells about a different perspective from the scientific vision of life. It is divided into four essays about contemporary scientism. The first two question the scientific vision of life and the last ones disapprove two well-known extensions of the associated scientism. Something I really liked about this book is that it is an easy read, it hasn’t got technical language and it doesn’t talk about philosophy (something I find really boring).
From my point of view, this book is a before and after in life because it will change the way you see some approaches about it. It’s a must read. I'm going to give it five deserved stars.
December 2, 2020
I can’t think of a more controversial topic as evolution, so when I took a glance at this title on the Amazon
Kindle store I did not hesitate to pick it up. I wanted to explore a practically unknown world for me.
This narrative has been crafted in a great manner by Christopher, this proves that his knowledge on the theme is advanced and that may be one of the reasons why the book is so captivating and interesting. Even though the topics touched here may seem difficult to understand
but by most people, this is not what I felt after I have finished reading.
The book is divided into five amazingly chapters and each of them explore topics which are usually thought-provoking, like religion, evolution, science and existence. In the last chapter, Christopher included a conclusion which is easy to grasp and a perfect summary of his ideas. Besides, an essay by Steven Pinker and Sam Harris is examined at the end.
Kindle store I did not hesitate to pick it up. I wanted to explore a practically unknown world for me.
This narrative has been crafted in a great manner by Christopher, this proves that his knowledge on the theme is advanced and that may be one of the reasons why the book is so captivating and interesting. Even though the topics touched here may seem difficult to understand
but by most people, this is not what I felt after I have finished reading.
The book is divided into five amazingly chapters and each of them explore topics which are usually thought-provoking, like religion, evolution, science and existence. In the last chapter, Christopher included a conclusion which is easy to grasp and a perfect summary of his ideas. Besides, an essay by Steven Pinker and Sam Harris is examined at the end.
May 6, 2021
I think the title is misleading. It should be called: what science is still incapable of explaining? Or something that sounds more alluring and accurate. First of all, this is not an easy read; this is not a book you will take and enjoy during a rainy afternoon. The work done by the author is academic –almost philosophical! It would be best if you had your complete focus over the sentences, or you will be lost in translation.
The book is riveting and thought-provoking; there’s no question about it. But in my opinion, instead of demonstrating where science has failed, it limits to bash out past researches (most of them inconclusive still) and scientific mantras. Still, it does not offer a “solution” to the question. The perfect example comes right at the beginning with the transgender example. The book’s merit in terms of research and valid discussions is indisputable, but it seems like only one side of the story made its opening statement. I wanted to hear both.
The book is riveting and thought-provoking; there’s no question about it. But in my opinion, instead of demonstrating where science has failed, it limits to bash out past researches (most of them inconclusive still) and scientific mantras. Still, it does not offer a “solution” to the question. The perfect example comes right at the beginning with the transgender example. The book’s merit in terms of research and valid discussions is indisputable, but it seems like only one side of the story made its opening statement. I wanted to hear both.
October 22, 2020
A reader to question everything
Why Science is Wrong About Life and Evolution was written by Ted Christopher. In this book, the writer presents readers a vast and detailed explanation of his and other authors’ controversial points of view about life and science.
If you agree to read this book, be ready to see your world shake. This is because everything you have been told during your entire existence, every idea you were bred since the moment you were born is put under question.
I personally believe that as a reader, you need to have an open mind while going through the almost 200 pages of this contentious book. Although the hot topics discussed in this book are complex, the author is able to explain them in a simple and clear way. Thus, I believe that adults could find this reader challenging.
Why Science is Wrong About Life and Evolution was written by Ted Christopher. In this book, the writer presents readers a vast and detailed explanation of his and other authors’ controversial points of view about life and science.
If you agree to read this book, be ready to see your world shake. This is because everything you have been told during your entire existence, every idea you were bred since the moment you were born is put under question.
I personally believe that as a reader, you need to have an open mind while going through the almost 200 pages of this contentious book. Although the hot topics discussed in this book are complex, the author is able to explain them in a simple and clear way. Thus, I believe that adults could find this reader challenging.
October 23, 2020
“Why Science is wrong about life and evolution: The invisible gene and other essays on scientism” is a book written by Ted Christopher. This book is interesting from beginning to end. Once I finished reading it, I found myself thinking a lot about it.
Apart from being thought provoking, it is very informative and written in a clear way so that everybody can understand it. Although it is not very long, because it has less than two hundred pages, it took me a while to finish it because I read it in depth, trying not to miss anything.
All in all, I recommend reading this because it will certainly change the way you see things, as happened to me, and also it is a very good and interesting read from beginning to end.
Apart from being thought provoking, it is very informative and written in a clear way so that everybody can understand it. Although it is not very long, because it has less than two hundred pages, it took me a while to finish it because I read it in depth, trying not to miss anything.
All in all, I recommend reading this because it will certainly change the way you see things, as happened to me, and also it is a very good and interesting read from beginning to end.
October 23, 2020
This is a collection of essays that blew my mind. All the information in this book kind of surprised me because I have never thought in a different way than the usual about life and evolution. The author, Ted Christopher, did a great job and wrote it in a very good way, so as readers of any type can understand his points.
Why science is wrong about life and evolution: the invisible gene and other essays on scientism is a book that all people should read because it changes your perspective and opens your mind to other greater things.
It is a very recommendable read because I believe that others will enjoy it as much as I did. Don’t be afraid for the topic and give it a try, it will leave you thinking for days.
Why science is wrong about life and evolution: the invisible gene and other essays on scientism is a book that all people should read because it changes your perspective and opens your mind to other greater things.
It is a very recommendable read because I believe that others will enjoy it as much as I did. Don’t be afraid for the topic and give it a try, it will leave you thinking for days.
May 12, 2021
Why Science is Wrong about Life and Evolution explores the premise that everything about a person (their traits, their personality, etc.) comes back to their DNA, along with the global allegiance to a particularly dogmatic scientific approach that may prevent life itself from carrying a full range of meaning. At times the book became a tad technical, but I would not say confusing. The author avoided jargon-laden discussions and philosophical roller coasters that might throw readers off. Overall a well written and intriguing book...would be curious to see what this author has to day about other topics like Global Warming.
May 18, 2021
The book Why Science is Wrong About Life and Evolution gets more criticism. The author Ted Christopher vaguely blended many scientific concepts. For instance, genetics, DNA, scientism, Buddhism, and meditation. Ted Christopher tried to show the scientific view of these concepts. But actually, he provides arguments that science does not support at all. However, there are some interesting discussions about evolution and science as well in the book. Unluckily, the book does not clutch the reader's attention. One can say the author provides more general concepts rather than scientific facts of evolution.
April 27, 2021
Collection of ideas and stories about a variety of societal issues
This book is about a variety of topics from transgender children to prodigies and the missing gene. The author has put together a collection of ideas and done a deep dive into the possible reasons behind each one of these topics. The views are thought provoking but seem to represent certain ideas without solid conclusions. This is an interesting read that will have you wondering about the outcome and if your views are the same as the authors. A good read for a new perspective on old societal concepts.
This book is about a variety of topics from transgender children to prodigies and the missing gene. The author has put together a collection of ideas and done a deep dive into the possible reasons behind each one of these topics. The views are thought provoking but seem to represent certain ideas without solid conclusions. This is an interesting read that will have you wondering about the outcome and if your views are the same as the authors. A good read for a new perspective on old societal concepts.
May 13, 2021
With this book, you will see 4 essays that are designed to be thought-provoking. While you probably have a strong opinion on evolution, this book seems as if it is designed simply to offer you additional information to consider. This is good, since you should always be studying and learning more, even when it comes to topics that you feel very strongly about. It is up to you to determine what you will get out of this book, but you can tell that it is researched well and there are plenty of resources to look into at the end of the book too.
February 21, 2021
It is well written for an academic paper, but it didn't hold my interest in terms of passing the "So what?" test. The author makes good points and raises good questions about why scientists are wrong about a lot of things, but those things never bothered me, and the writing wasn't engaging enough to make me care that much more. I am glad I read it though.
February 28, 2021
Although this author brings up interesting topics of conversation, I struggled to find a focused topic suggested by the title. It exhaustively quotes sources and discusses topics such as prodigies, paranormal phenomena and meditation but evolution is minimally addressed.
October 31, 2020
This book was not what I expected based on the title. It contains four primary sections. The first, which focused on DNA was the one I was the most interested in. The other sections included phenomena (such as transgender children), scientism (enlightenment), and Buddhism/meditation. Overall, the book left me wondering what the overall theme was trying to say. Part of this is because the title seemed at odds with the content. I thought the collection of essays was intriguing and thought-provoking but it seemed to only look at one side of the story, which is very unscientific when making analysis. I think a lot of the points the author made were more in the realm of things that science doesn't fully understand or hasn't explained yet rather than things that science got "wrong", because it presents science as static rather than a constantly evolving field. I did think the essays were interesting and could give scientists ideas of where to look for new discoveries, but felt that the author was trying to divide the prospect of building a science-based understanding of nature, life, and evolution rather than help guide or redirect. If you like your mind and ideas to be challenged though, this is a good read for exploration.
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