August 1, 2005
This title is part of ABC-CLIO's successful History of Science series. Other titles include " Science in the Ancient World: An Encyclopedia " (2004)," Science in the Contemporary World: An Encyclopedia" (2005), " Science in the Enlightenment: An Encyclopedia" (2003), and " The Scientific Revolution: An Encyclopedia" (2001). The title under review covers developments in the scientific disciplines from 1900 to about 1950.
Entries cover scientific concepts, leaders, institutions, and disciplines. The reading level is appropriate for high-school, undergraduate, and general adult readers. Each entry has a narrative text, photos or other illustrations, and a brief bibliography; those looking for more advanced or detailed explanations, especially of scientific concepts, will need to look elsewhere. " See also" references are included at the end of the entries. Biographical entries are introduced by place and date of birth and, where pertinent, death. The bibliographies are short, many with only one or two items, usually books. Some Web sites are included. The photos endeavor to capture the scientists at their work or present a lively portrait. A chronology, selected general bibliography, and subject index appear at the end of each volume.
Since the emphasis is on science history, those looking for more detailed explanations of scientific theories and concepts will need to turn to more general titles, such as the classic scientific reference source, " McGraw-Hill Encyclopedia of Science and Technology " (9th ed., 2002).\b" \b0" Information on many of the same topics discussed in the ABC-CLIO title can be found in " The Oxford Companion to the History of Modern Science " (2003), but\b \b0 readers may choose the former for its approachable writing and attractive layout. It makes a good introductory text to the history of science in the first half of the twentieth century and is recommended for public and academic libraries. (Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2005, American Library Association.)