New Genetics: The Study Of Life Lines (Science and Society)

The impact society has on the progress and acceptance of new science - and vice versa - is greater than most people think. For instance, over the past five years, events indicate that citizens' views have helped change the focus of the research and development carried out by both the U.S. Department of Agriculture and by the Environmental Protection Agency. Likewise, citizen actions have influenced the direction of the activities of organizations such as the World Bank in their efforts to improve agriculture and living conditions in the developing nations of the world. The new "Science and Society" set not only highlights the "what" of science, but also the "why," the "how," and the "who." Each volume provides an accessible, authoritative view of the history and current state of a particular issue. With a focus on humanizing science, this set brings each subject - from air pollution to nuclear power to natural medicines - to life by showing students all the factors that motivate research and revealing how scientists compete and collaborate with one another. By exploring the connections between science and society, especially in controversial areas, each book illustrates both how society supports science and how science in return supports society. Each volume includes an introduction providing an overview of the topic, complete chapter-by-chapter coverage, dozens of black-and-white photographs and line illustrations, a helpful index and glossary, lists of websites and suggestions for further reading that allow readers quick access to detailed information.