Ferric C. Fang, MD, is a Professor of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Microbiology, Medicine, and Global Health at the University of Washington School of Medicine, Director of the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory at Harborview Medical Center, and a former Editor-in-Chief of Infection and Immunity.
 
Arturo Casadevall, MD, PhD, is a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor and Chair of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, a Professor of Medicine at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and the Editor-in-Chief of mBio.

List of Boxes, Figures, and Tables ix
 
Preface xiii
 
Acknowledgments xvii
 
About the Authors xix
 
Section I Definitions of Science 1
 
Chapter 1 What Is Science? 3
 
We discuss the epistemological origins of science; features of the scientific method; and characteristics to distinguish science from intuition, belief, or pseudoscience.
 
Chapter 2 Descriptive Science 15
 
We argue that although "descriptive" is an adjective often used pejoratively, description plays a vital role in science and is essential for the generation and testing of hypotheses.
 
Chapter 3 Mechanistic Science 23
 
We explain that the adjective "mechanistic" is often applied to explanatory science, but its meaning is relative.
 
Chapter 4 Reductionistic and Holistic Science 33
 
We show that reductionism and holism are two ends of a scientific spectrum that are often viewed in opposition but are actually complementary and essential.
 
Section II Good Science 41
 
Chapter 5 Elegant Science 43
 
We consider what scientists mean when they refer to an "elegant" idea or experiment and how the quest for elegance can mislead.
 
Chapter 6 Rigorous Science 51
 
We provide a how-to guide for performing rigorous research that produces reliable results.
 
Chapter 7 Reproducible Science 61
 
We explore why reproducibility is prized in science and why it is so elusive.
 
Chapter 8 Important Science 73
 
We propose criteria to assess whether a scientific finding or line of inquiry is important.
 
Chapter 9 Historical Science 85
 
We discuss why the history of a scientific discovery is important even though it may be neglected or distorted by scientists.
 
Chapter 10 Specialized Science 95
 
We examine the value and risk of specialization in science, reasons for the emergence of scientific fields, and the growing importance of interdisciplinary teams in contemporary research.
 
Chapter 11 Revolutionary Science 115
 
We ask what constitutes a revolution in science and consider whether revolutions truly replace older ideas or rather build upon them.
 
Chapter 12 Translational Science 131
 
We probe the interface between basic and applied research that translates into useful applications and question whether society can or should favor one type of science over the other.
 
Chapter 13 Moonshot Science 141
 
We review past and present major targeted investments in science akin to the moonshot program and the determinants of their success.
 
Chapter 14 Serendipitous Science 149
 
We consider the importance of undirected exploration and the many scientific discoveries that were wholly unanticipated.
 
Section III Bad Science 155
 
Chapter 15 Unequal Science 157
 
We reflect on how science is rife with inequality and inequity, but a diverse scientific workforce will be critically important for science's future.
 
Chapter 16 Pseudoscience 171
 
We explain that the power of science to persuade has led some to mimic scientific methods and language in the service of false or misguided beliefs.
 
Chapter 17 Duplicated Science 177
 
We demonstrate that inappropriate image duplication resulting from sloppiness or misconduct is surprisingly common in the scientific literature.
 
Chapter 18 Fraudulent Science 195
 
We show that in addition to fabrication, falsification, and plagiarism, a variety of poor research practices collectively undermine the reliability of the research enterprise and are symptomatic of a dysfunctional research culture in which incentives are misaligned with goals.
 
Chapter 19 Dismal Science 203<

Thinking about Science: Good Science, Bad Science, and How to Make It Better
 
A riveting exploration of the world of science, diving headfirst into its triumphs and tribulations.
 
Penned by seasoned microbiologists Ferric C. Fang and Arturo Casadevall, this book offers a comprehensive analysis of the scientific enterprise through various lenses, including historical, philosophical, and personal.
 
From their unique vantage points as researchers, clinicians, and educators, Fang and Casadevall dissect the intricate mechanisms of science, shedding light on its strengths and weaknesses. Through engaging historical anecdotes, personal narratives, and insightful academic studies, they present a candid evaluation of science's performance, including a thought-provoking examination of its role during the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
A must-read for anyone curious about the present predicaments and future potential of science, Thinking about Science: Good Science, Bad Science, and How to Make It Better is more than just a book; it's a roadmap to understanding and improving the scientific endeavor for the benefit of society at large.
 
"The authors have given us a thoughtful description of science and the joy of discovery, an unflinching diagnosis of where improvements are needed, and recommendations for remedies well worth considering. Scientists, science and society would benefit if this book were read by both future and established scientists, as well as the administrators, policymakers, and regulators who are in a position to help us do better."
Michael Kalichman, UC San Diego
 
"With a deep understanding of the profound impact of science on society, the authors provide thought-provoking perspectives on changes in the scientific enterprise that will support sustainable, equitable practices, and engender public trust. An engaging read for everyone with an interest in science or science policy."
Stanley Maloy, San Diego State University