Books matching: humorous scientific writing
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Evolutionary biologist Menno Schilthuizen explores the effect of humans and our cities on the environment in his book 'Darwin Comes to Town: How the Urban Jungle Drives Evolution'. Schilthuizen outlines the relatively short time it has taken for many common species to adapt due to the evolutionary pressure of human urbanization, arguing that humans should be seen as part of the ecosystem as a whole. The book delves into different species adapting to urban environments, showcasing how they evolve rapidly and successfully in specialized habitats within cities.
Some 20 miles west of the city of Rotterdam lie the coastal sand dunes of Voorne—an extensive area (at least, by Dutch diminutive standards) of rolling, vegetated dunes, though increasingly consumed f...- #2
Save:'Your Inner Fish' by Neil Shubin is a popular science book that delves into the evolution of humans from ancient ancestors, exploring the connections between modern humans and various types of ancestors in terms of genes, embryology, and anatomy. The book covers the discovery of Tiktaalik, a significant fossil intermediary species, and discusses how human evolution can be traced and mirrored in other animals, both modern and ancient. Shubin's writing style is described as clear, approachable, and engaging, making complex scientific concepts easy to understand for readers with varying levels of background in biology.
The book not only focuses on paleontology but also touches on genetics, biology, and more, providing informative and interesting insights into the evolutionary journey from fish to proto mammals to humans. Shubin's narrative weaves together different scientific disciplines, presenting the information in a light, comfortable, and humorous manner, making it an enjoyable read for those interested in human anatomy, evolution, and the history of life on Earth.
I first saw one of our inner fish on a snowy July afternoon while studying 375-million-year-old rocks on Ellesmere Island, at a latitude about 80 degrees north. My colleagues and I had traveled up to ... "Evolution Gone Wrong: The Curious Reasons Why Our Bodies Work" by Alex Bezzerides delves into the intricacies of human evolution and physiology, examining the reasons behind the imperfections in our bodies. The author's writing style is a mix of humor and informative content, making complex biological concepts accessible to readers. From discussing the evolution of the eye to the impact of dietary changes on teeth formation, Bezzerides takes readers on a journey through our evolutionary past, explaining the origins of various bodily features in an engaging manner.
The book covers a wide range of topics such as childbirth, back pain, foot evolution, color vision, and infertility, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of how evolution has shaped the human body. Despite some criticism regarding the author's writing style, the book is praised for its informative content, humor, and ability to make challenging scientific concepts understandable to a broad audience.
The Obesity Code by Jason Fung is a highly informative and scientifically-backed book that challenges common misconceptions about obesity and diet. Dr. Fung presents the idea of obesity as a multifactorial, primarily hormone-driven condition, supported by numerous studies. The book delves into the role of insulin in weight gain, the impact of different macronutrients on the body, and the benefits of fasting for metabolic health. Fung's writing style, though not particularly well-written according to some readers, is direct, reader-friendly, and filled with humor, making complex medical facts accessible to a wider audience.
HERE’S THE QUESTION that has always bothered me: Why are there doctors who are fat? Accepted as authorities in human physiology, doctors should be true experts on the causes and treatments of obesity....- #5
Save:'The Mismeasure of Man' by Stephen Jay Gould is a critical examination of the flawed concept of IQ and its misuse in comparing human races and ethnic groups. Gould delves into the historical biases that have influenced scientific conclusions, warning against the dangers of claiming objectivity in science. Through a series of real examples, he highlights how cultural biases have led to detrimental social policies based on flawed science.
The original title for The Mismeasure of Man would have honored my hero Charles Darwin for the wonderfully incisive statement that he made about biological determinism to climax his denunciation of sl... 'Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst' by Robert M. Sapolsky delves into the complexities of human behavior, exploring the biological, genetic, environmental, and cultural factors that influence our actions. Sapolsky's writing style is described as comprehensive, detailed, and richly complex, incorporating humor to make the intricate discussions more accessible to readers. The book covers topics ranging from neuroscience and genetics to societal issues like compassion, violence, and symbolic values, offering a deep exploration of what shapes human behavior and identity.
I make my living as a combination neurobiologist—someone who studies the brain—and primatologist—someone who studies monkeys and apes. Therefore, this is a book that is rooted in science, specifically...- #7
Save:'Project Hail Mary' by Andy Weir is a science fiction novel that follows the story of Ryland Grace, a man who wakes up on a spaceship with no memory of who he is or why he is there. He soon discovers that he is on a mission to save humanity from an alien infestation that is consuming the sun. The book combines elements of suspense, science, and adventure as Ryland navigates challenges, solves scientific problems, and forms unexpected alliances with alien lifeforms to unravel the mystery and find a solution to save Earth.
The writing style of 'Project Hail Mary' is described as fast-paced, humorous, and engaging. The author, Andy Weir, expertly weaves scientific details into the narrative, making complex concepts accessible and adding credibility to the mind-bending events in the story. The book alternates between present-time events on the spaceship and flashbacks that provide background information, creating a well-balanced narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
What’s going on? I want to find out, but I don’t have much to work with. I can’t see. I can’t hear anything other than the computer. I can’t even feel. No, that’s not true. I feel something. I’m lying... - #8
Save:The Body by Bill Bryson takes readers on a captivating journey through the human body, exploring various organs, systems, diseases, and medical breakthroughs. Bryson's writing style is described as informative, humorous, and thought-provoking, making complex scientific information accessible and engaging for the layperson. The book covers a wide range of topics, from anatomy to medical history, presenting a comprehensive overview of the human body and its inner workings.
LONG AGO, WHEN I was a junior high school student in Iowa, I remember being taught by a biology teacher that all the chemicals that make up a human body could be bought in a hardware store for $5.00 o... - #9
Save:The novella "The Parasite" by Arthur Conan Doyle revolves around Professor Gilroy, a physiologist who is initially skeptical about hypnotism but becomes mesmerized by a woman named Miss Penclosa who can control his actions. As Miss Penclosa's psychic powers dominate Professor Gilroy's thoughts and actions, he is forced to confront a dramatic final solution in a gripping conclusion. The story is set in Great Britain and delves into themes of mesmerism, paranormal phenomena, and the psychological manipulation of the protagonist.
"The Parasite" is a short work of speculative fiction written in the style of a personal and scientific diary maintained by Professor Gilroy, providing insights into his thoughts and speculations about being invaded and violated by the mesmerist. The plot unfolds with suspense bordering on horror as Professor Gilroy's skepticism is challenged, leading to a series of events that keep the reader engaged until the surprising ending.
March 24. The spring is fairly with us now. Outside my laboratorywindow the great chestnut-tree is all covered with the big, glutinous,gummy buds, some of which have already begun to break into little... - #10The Science of DiscworldBook 1 in the series:Science Of Discworld
Save:'The Science of Discworld' in the series 'Science Of Discworld' by author Terry Pratchett, Jack Cohen, Ian Stewart is a unique blend of fiction and science. It alternates between chapters involving the wizards at the Unseen University creating a new universe and scientific explanations provided by Ian Stewart. The book explores the concept of Narrativium, the power of story in Discworld, and contrasts it with real-world science, offering a lucid and thoughtful discussion. It delves into topics like the origins of the universe, the history of science, and evolution, all presented in an entertaining and engaging manner.
