If Science is to Save Us

The decisions on how science is applied should be the result of a broad public debate, and science needs to become part of our common culture to save us from the multiple crises we face. Martin Rees argues that we need to think globally, rationally, and long-term, empowered by twenty-first-century technology but guided by values that science alone cannot provide.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 23 September 2022
Publisher: Polity Press

The importance of following the science has never been greater for humanity. In our time, we possess unparalleled knowledge and technology, granting us an extraordinary ability to shape the future of our planet. However, the critical choices regarding the application of science lie beyond the confines of the laboratory and require extensive public discourse. To achieve this, science must integrate into our shared cultural consciousness. Science is not solely the domain of scientists; if it were, it could never rescue us from the numerous crises we confront. It is only through the careful integration of science into society and the channeling of its applications toward the greater good that we can harness its potential to save us.

In his insightful and deeply personal examination of the scientific endeavor upon which we all rely, Martin Rees emphasizes the need for us to adopt a global perspective, exercise rational thinking, and contemplate the long-term. We are empowered by the remarkable technologies of the twenty-first century, yet we must be guided by values that surpass the scope of science alone.

The significance of embracing the science is underscored by the fact that it holds the potential to address the pressing challenges we face, ranging from climate change and environmental degradation to healthcare and social inequality. By working together, leveraging our collective knowledge, and applying scientific principles in a responsible and ethical manner, we can create a better future for ourselves and future generations.

In conclusion, the time has come for us to recognize the immense power of science and its potential to transform our world for the better. By engaging in open and inclusive discussions, fostering a culture of scientific literacy, and ensuring that scientific innovations are aligned with societal values, we can harness the full potential of science to address the complex challenges we face and build a more prosperous and sustainable future for all.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 146 x 222 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509554201