India is one of the 10 top most scientifically and technologically advanced countries in the world, but we lack the scientific temper which pervades every section of the Indian society and raises its ugly head in every human activity undertaken. Perhaps, only the poorest of the poor who spend their entire lives on pavements under the open sky ?harbour no superstition?, says the authors. In fact, they add, ?It may be that as we go up the hierarchy of affluence in our society, the extent of irrationality and belief increases.?
This book, in a compilation of articles, presents the story of development as well as negations of scientific temper in India.
One of the ways suggested to develop a scientific outlook is improvement in science by supplementing it with efforts to popularise science. The authors also suggest that state governments should be persuaded to establish at least one science museum and one museum of natural history in every state; establish science associations with the express objectives of, a) spreading consciousness of the aim, method and values of science; b) removal of beliefs in the supernatural and in superstitions; and c) removal of dichotomy amongst scientists themselves. The exercise of scientific temper or scientific humanism has an important role to play in an emerging nation as it can ?induce thought, awaken society from the apathy into which it has fallen and make the vast population into a moulding and creative force instead of a crushing dead weight.?
At the individual level, education, the environment at home, social interactions and experience and logical reasoning play an important role in acquisition of understanding and the ability to evaluate and arrive at opinions and dimensions that would stand the test of time.
For collective development, one needs to delineate precisely the goals?both short term and long term. ?The scientific method is an important tool for assessment of the merits of such goals and for ensuring that they are achievable within the means available. This is crucial for defining strategies for using our assets and containing our liabilities to the maximum possible extent in real time and on a continuing basis for achieving the desired goals.?
In short, the objective of the book is to explain the importance of science and scientific temper. However the book tends to confuse the reader by explaining what can be explained in some very simple and precise words.
(National Book Trust, India, A-5 Green Park, New Delhi-110 016.)
