Citizen Science : How Ordinary People Are Changing the Face of Discovery. This item is unavailable.Citizen Science : How Ordinary People Are Changing the Face of Discovery

The engaging history of the people whose contributions to scientific pursuits make us rethink the meaning of the word "scientist."

Think you need a degree in science to contribute to important scientific discoveries? Think again. All around the world, in fields ranging from astronomy to zoology, millions of everyday people are choosing to participate in the scientific process. Working in cooperation with scientists in pursuit of information, innovation, and discovery, these volunteers are following protocols, collecting and reviewing data, and sharing their observations. They are our neighbors, our in-laws, and people in the office down the hall. Their story, along with the story of the social good that can result from citizen science, has largely been untold, until now.

Citizen scientists are challenging old notions about who can conduct research, where knowledge can be acquired, and even how solutions to some of our biggest societal problems might emerge. In telling their story, Cooper will inspire readers to rethink their own assumptions about the role that individuals can play in gaining scientific understanding and putting that understanding to use as stewards of our world. Citizen Science will be a rallying call-to-arms, and will also function as an authoritative resource for those inspired by the featured stories and message. 

[An] engaging exploration of citizen science . . . Speaking to educators at all levels, curious individuals hoping to get more involved, and groups planning community programming, this work is an excellent recommendation.

An engaging overview of the movement written with the energy and the enthusiasm of a crusader for the cause.--Deborah Blum

Cooper provides that rarest of things: a hopeful road forward. Cooper's road is one in which science is democratized. It is a road on which we know more about ourselves and the world around us. It is also a road on which millions, perhaps billions, have the tools necessary to empower themselves. Read this book if you care about the future.--Rob Dunn, award-winning author of Every Living Thing and The Wild Life of Our Bodies