Kuhn's theory, that science is heavily influenced by non-rational procedures, and that new theories are viewed as being more complex than those they usurp but do not stand any closer to the truth, is outlined. Included are implications of this theory and criticisms of it. (AJ)

Highlights the programs and educational offerings of the Center for History of Physics in New York City that was established by the American Institute of Physics. Reviews the variety of resources associated with the facility and outlines the specific services provided for educators and the public. (ML)

Presents the synthesis of the science of enzymology from application of the concepts of physical organic chemistry from a historical perspective. Summarizes enzyme and coenzyme mechanisms elucidated prior to 1963. (JM)

Gives historical background on the discovery of natural radiation and discusses various techniques for using knowledge of radiochemistry in geochronological studies. Indicates that of these radioactive techniques, Potassium-40/Argon-40 dating is used most often. (JN)

Discusses a number of significant persons and ideas in the European development of notions relating to faunal succession. Major focus is on the 17th through the 19th centuries, from the onset of rational investigations of the earth to definition of the stratigraphic zone. (JN)

Explores the social and cultural processes involved in the development of a social system of science in non-Western contexts. Proposes a sociology of science validity program for studying science in varying cultural and civilizational settings. Summarizes science development in China, India, Iran, and Japan. (ML)

Discusses the formative elements of modern science in Japan, examining the feudalistic influence and impact of national events on policy formation and program direction. Also analyzes the cultural and social factors that have changed Japan's approach to science and technology. (ML)

Examines the impact of the state on the institutionalization of modern science and technology in non-Western societies. Conditions for the degree of development of science are explained. The institutionalization of modern science and technology in Japan and India are also compared and contrasted. (ML)

Traces the history of the antivivisection movement, examining issues related to the use of animals in studying the cause of rabies. Also discusses issues related to the current controversy over animal experimentation. (JN)

Discusses: material/personnel shortages and surpluses around 1950; federal aid to nonmilitary research; loyalty oaths and security checks; rise of the behavioral sciences; science education, from the Cold War to creationism; antinuclear protests and the limited test ban treaty, 1954-1963; Sputnik and the space program; and health, safety, and…

Reviews a six-part series (available as 16mm film or videocassettes) in which actors portray scientists lecturing on various topics/issues. Scientists portrayed include Louis Pasteur, Charles Darwin, William Harvey, Gregor Mendel, William Beaumont, and Hans Spemann. Also reviews a film detailing construction of the Multiple Mirror Telescope on…

Describes kites and kite flying in different countries and throughout history, including the New York Kite Festival. Notes that principles governing kite behavior control the flight of airplanes. (MH)

Merton claims an important role for German pietism in the rapid rise of Western science over the past four centuries. An investigation of sources either misinterpreted or ignored by Merton not only calls into question his conclusion about pietism and science but also opens discussion about ascetic Protestantism and science. (Author/IS)

In a reply to Becker's critique of the relationship between pietism and science, Merton discusses the fallacy of the latest word, which is based on the idea that scientific knowledge always proceeds upwards and that the latest theory is the best theory as well as the one best grounded in evidence. (Author/IS)

Discusses four periods of development in American physics during the last two hundred years and the discoveries and research of both Benjamin Franklin and Henry Rowland. (MLH)