The Art of Doing Science and Engineering

Synopsis

A groundbreaking treatise by one of the great mathematicians of our age, who outlines a style of thinking by which great ideas are conceived.

What inspires and spurs on a great idea? Can we train ourselves to think in a way that will enable world-changing understandings and insights to emerge?

Richard Hamming said we can. He first inspired a generation of engineers, scientists, and researchers in 1986 with "You and Your Research," an electrifying sermon on why some scientists do great work, why most don't, why he did, and why you can-and should-too. The Art of Doing Science and Engineering is the full expression of what "You and Your Research" outlined. It's a book about thinking; more specifically, a style of thinking by which great ideas are conceived.

The book is filled with stories of great people performing mighty deeds-but they are not meant simply to be admired. Instead, they are to be aspired to, learned from, and surpassed. Hamming consistently returns to Shannon's information theory, Einstein's theory of relativity, Grace Hopper's work on high-level programming, Kaiser's work on digital fillers, and his own work on error-correcting codes. He also recounts a number of his spectacular failures as clear examples of what to avoid.

Originally published in 1996 and adapted from a course that Hamming taught at the US Naval Postgraduate School, this edition includes an all-new foreword by designer, engineer, and founder of Dynamicland Bret Victor, plus more than 70 redrawn graphs and charts.

The Art of Doing Science and Engineering is a reminder that a capacity for learning and creativity are accessible to everyone. Hamming was as much a teacher as a scientist, and having spent a lifetime forming and confirming a theory of great people and great ideas, he prepares the next generation for even greater distinction.

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Nature of Scientific and Engineering Discovery

This chapter introduces the fundamental principles of scientific and engineering research. It discusses the importance of curiosity, observation, experimentation, and logical reasoning.

* Real Example: The discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming serendipitously occurred when he noticed a mold contaminating a bacterial culture plate, leading to the development of an antibiotic that revolutionized medicine.

Chapter 2: The Scientific Method

This chapter outlines the systematic approach known as the scientific method and its steps: observation, hypothesis, experimentation, analysis, and conclusion.

* Real Example: The development of the vaccine for polio by Jonas Salk involved conducting clinical trials to test the effectiveness of an inactivated poliovirus vaccine, ultimately leading to a significant reduction in polio cases worldwide.

Chapter 3: Problem Solving

This chapter emphasizes the importance of identifying and solving problems effectively. It discusses techniques such as brainstorming, mind mapping, and decision matrices.

* Real Example: The design and construction of the Golden Gate Bridge involved solving engineering challenges, such as supporting its weight and withstanding earthquakes, through innovative techniques such as suspension cables and seismic isolation.

Chapter 4: Communication

This chapter highlights the importance of clear and effective communication in science and engineering. It covers writing reports, giving presentations, and disseminating research findings.

* Real Example: The Human Genome Project required extensive collaboration and communication among scientists worldwide, resulting in the successful sequencing of the human genome and its potential impact on medicine and healthcare.

Chapter 5: Ethics and Responsibility

This chapter addresses ethical considerations in scientific and engineering research, including the responsible use of technology, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability.

* Real Example: The ethical implications of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) involve concerns about potential environmental impacts and long-term human health effects, requiring careful evaluation and risk assessment.

Chapter 6: The Future of Science and Engineering

This chapter explores potential future developments and advancements in science and engineering. It discusses emerging technologies and their potential societal impacts.

* Real Example: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly advancing and holds promise for automating tasks, enhancing decision-making, and improving human lives, but also raises ethical concerns and requires careful governance.

Chapter 7: The Art of Engineering Solutions

This chapter focuses on the problem-solving process in engineering, emphasizing design thinking and iterative improvement.

* Real Example: The development of self-driving cars involves combining advanced technologies and algorithms with rigorous testing and prototyping to create autonomous vehicles that enhance transportation safety and efficiency.

Chapter 8: The Creative Process

This chapter explores the role of creativity in scientific and engineering endeavors, addressing the importance of divergent thinking and experimentation.

* Real Example: The invention of the World Wide Web by Tim Berners-Lee stemmed from creative exploration and the desire for a better way to share information, leading to a revolutionary technology that transformed global communication and access to knowledge.