Carl Sagan

Advantages: Rational, scientific, a great explication of de-bunking of modern mythology and pseudo-science
Disadvantages: Has some flaws in the argumentation, natural to Sagan's usual framework

...I was first introduced to Carl Sagan, along with most of the public, through the series 'Cosmos'. Perhaps I can be forgiven for not having heard of him prior to that, given I was twelve years old at the time. It became very apparent in that series, and all subsequent writings, that Sagan was a man of science, to his very core. I have known physicists and scientists of other fields who have embraced denominational and religious tenets, and followed other faith structures (albeit usually with modifications to the theological framework, which in fact puts them in company with their non-scientific intellectual companions). Not so for Sagan. It became clear to me, almost from the beginning his series, that science, the religion of rationality, was his religion. He worshipped the Cosmos, his dogma was the principle of rationality... Read review

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Advantages: Engrossing, Believable
Disadvantages: Moralistic, Limited Characterization

...Well, I'm sure we've all seen the Film Based On The Book featuring the delightful Jodie Foster (mrrrroow), and - first and foremost - I must admit I myself saw the film first. Indeed, it's one of my favourite films of all time, hence my decision to purchase the novel. As with all books later translated into cinematic form, it varies in several minor and one or two major ways from the movie's plot. In short, the novel charts the experiences of our protagonist - Ellie - a radio-astronomer, as she discovers a Message apparently from an alien star. It later transpires this Message contains instructions to build a Machine (Get used to these words being capitalized, Sagan does it in almost every instance, apparently to assure us these are Important Words) designed to transport a human envoy to meet the aliens. The majority of the novel... Read review

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Advantages: Wonderful text, accessible and interesting
Disadvantages: -

...In honour of Astronomy week, I offer this brief review of my favourite of all Astronomy books. ------ How many people who watched the 'Cosmos' series on television (PBS in America - perhaps the best astronomy and general science series ever produced by them) could ever forget Carl Sagan's intonation at proclaiming the wonders of the universe in grand terms, billions and billions of stars and galaxies and planets (and consequently, everything else). While this book was published in 1980 to be a companion to the television series, there is nonetheless a certain timelessness about it. Many science texts (even general readers such as this) become dated fairly quickly. Yet this book remains a volume to which I refer time and again for its history, philosophy and insight into scientific method and personality. This book more than anything... Read review

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