A Random Walk Through Science

University of Singapore, August 2006

A talk to first-year students at the beginning of their scientific careers

University Publicity Blurb

What is science about? What do scientists do? Dr Len Fisher takes us on a tour that encompasses biology, physics, chemistry and mathematics, showing how these sciences have evolved through a series of backwards, forwards and sideways steps (often involving treading on other scientists’ toes), and how they are continuing to do so in the present day. On the way we encounter Galileo’s calculation of the dimensions of Hell, a doctor who tried to weigh the Soul, the strange case of the racing amoebae, the not-so-selfish gene and the Restaurant at the end of the Universe. There is even practical advice on how to remove a damaged screw from a wall and how to add up your supermarket bill.

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