Combining world history with scientific discoveries and inventions, Asimov illustrates, in chronological order, how science and cultural, social, and political events have affected each other. A good reference for the general reader. No bibliography. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

In a new edition updated through 1993, a renowned science writer records the fascinating, obscure stories behind the milestones of scientific discovery and reveals their connection to the revolutions in human society over the past four million years.

Asimov tells the stories behind the science: the men and women who made the important discoveries and how they did it. Ranging from Galilei, Achimedes, Newton and Einstein, he takes the most complex concepts and explains it in such a way that a first-time reader on the subject feels confident on his/her understanding.

"An exploration of the physical and chemical basis of modern biology"--Page [1] of cover.