Product Description

Positioned at the crossroads of the physical and biological sciences, chemistry deals with neither the infinitely small, nor the infinitely large, nor directly with life. So it is sometimes thought of as dull, the way things in the middle often are. But this middle ground is precisely where human beings exist. As Hoffmann shows in his inspired prose, the world observed at its molecular level is complex and agitated, as are the emotions of the supposedly dispassionate scientists who explore it. In The Same and Not the Same the vital tensions of chemistry are revealed; with down-to-earth explanations, Hoffmann uncovers the polarities that power, rend, and reform the world of molecules. When we wash an apple before eating it, we are thinking not merely of the dirt that may still be on it but of the pesticides used in agricultural production. When we take medication, we expect relief for our pain but also fear side effects. The Same and Not the Same shows this ambivalence to be only one of a number of dualities pervading the world of molecules. The theme of identity, reflected in the title of the book, is central to the story. Other dualities, from stasis and dynamics, to creation and discovery to the rich complexity of revealing and concealing, are lucidly delineated for nonscientist and scientist alike. The Same and Not the Same also offers a rare and compelling personal statement of the social responsibility of scientists. Unabashedly confronting some of the major ethical controversies in chemistry today, the book strives for balance in facing the pressing ecological and environmental concerns of our time.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #737476 in Books
• Published on: 1997-01
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 294 pages

Review

"This [is a] refreshing, often controversial panorama of science as it is really conducted by talented, fallible human beings... by one of America's most respected chemists and joint winner of the 1991 Nobel Prize for Chemistry." -- "Biologist"

Biologist
This [is a] refreshing, often controversial panorama of science as it is really conducted by talented, fallible human beings . . . by one of America's most respected chemists and joint winner of the 1991 Nobel Prize for Chemistry.

Ingram
An accessible insider's view of chemistry, this volume helps explain a science that to most of us remains shrouded in mystery. Hoffmann explores the pressing environmental and ecological issues of our time, and confronts some of the major ethical controversies in chemistry today. More than 100 illustrations and photos enhance this sweeping exploration of modern chemistry.