This book looks at how science investigates the natural world around us. It is an examination of the scientific method, the foundation of science, and basis on which our scientific knowledge is built on. Written in a clear, concise, and colloquial style, the book addresses all concepts pertaining to the scientific method. It includes discussions on objective reality, hypotheses and theory, and the fundamental and inalienable role of experimental evidence in scientific knowledge. This collection of personal reflections on the scientific methodology shows the observations and daily uses of an experienced practitioner. Massimiliano Di Ventra also examines the limits of science and the errors we make when abusing its method in contexts that are not scientific, for example, in policymaking. By reflecting on the general method, the reader can critically sort through other types of scientific claims, and judge their ability to apply it in study and in practice.

About the Author
Massimiliano Di Ventra is Professor of Physics at the University of California, San Diego. His research interests are in the theory of electronic and transport properties of nanoscale systems, non-equilibrium statistical mechanics, DNA sequencing/polymer dynamics in nanopores, and memory effects in nanostructures for applications in unconventional computing and biophysics. He has been invited to deliver more than 270 talks worldwide on these topics.

Reviews
Science students should read this book early in their studies and learn to apply it to their coursework. It is short enough to use as a companion book and should lead to useful discussions about the nature of science and its practice. This work would also complement a course in the philosophy of science or even the history of science... Summing Up: Highly Recommended. * CHOICE *
The author explores the role of observation and experimentation, hypothesis, theory, and competing theories in the scientific process. Science students should read this book early in their studies and learn to apply it to their coursework. This work would also complement a course in the philosophy of science or even the history of science. * Professor Devon B. Mason, Albright College *
This is a timely book in an era of fake news and pseudoscience. * Nature Astronomy *
Such a short book, with its clear takeaway messages, is needed. * John R. Helliwell, Journal of Applied Crystallography *



Book Information
ISBN 9780198825623
Author Massimiliano Di Ventra
Format Paperback
Page Count 130
Imprint Oxford University Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 156g
Dimensions(mm) 197mm * 130mm * 7mm