Nonscience Returns

This is an updated edition of the book first published in 1971 as a scathing critique and parody of the way in which scientists dedicated to the search for truth have been largely replaced by opportunistic and arrogant experts claiming exclusive intellectual authority and dedicated to their public image and media exposure. They tend to use jargon and buzzwords such as 'smart' and are mainly men. Governments claim to follow expert scientific advice, but in the case of the current crisis, such experts are largely beholden to pharmaceutical financial interests, and competing views are censored and removed -- there is no open public debate, as would be normal in science where disagreements are normal. Data can be selectively used to substantiate claims, and conformity is the order of the day. The table on page 22 contrasts intellect with memory, originality with conformity, heterodoxy with orthodox methodologies, and integrity with circumspection. The chapters that follow explain how to become an expert and the corresponding training process and career path, including how to get published, how to impress your colleagues and acquire letters after your name, how to get into the press and how to become famous. A lot of this rings only too true, and is tellingly illustrated in a provocative controversial fashion drawing on many fields of enquiry (see table on pp. 214-5). Readers will find plenty to agree and disagree with in this stimulating and heavily ironic book.