Henri Poincaré / Francis Maitland
Poincare’s explanation of the scientific method and the steps taken by scientists to discern the best experiments and results for the advancement of knowledge remains a classic on the subject.Straddling the line between rigorous scientific practice and philosophy of mind, Poincare explores what constitutes a good scientific mind. How can such a mind make the best use of mathematics and logic to arrive at results and discoveries in science? With mathematics evermore crucial in quantifying and interpreting results, can we conclude that an adept command of numbers and logical theory is vital for contemporary scientists?Writing at the start of the 20th century, Poincare lived at a time of exciting advancements. Great strides were made physics and chemistry, with new industrial processes following on from these. An ever-growing sophistication of telescopes and astronomy meant space could be comprehended. In all, science and technology were instrumental to modern society. Books such as this sought to help the public obtain clarity on how discoveries are made and reliable theories posited – the idea of popular science, whereby the methodology is explained for ordinary people, was catching on.
