This new edition makes Henri Poincaré's classic defense of scientific objectivity accessible to today's readers. Written at a time when physics was being revolutionized by relativity and quantum theory, The Value of Science examines the foundations of mathematics, the nature of space and time, and the surprising unity of the physical sciences. Poincaré argues that science is neither arbitrary nor merely conventional, but gradually reveals a reality independent of the scientist. With clarity, wit, and deep insight, he tackles questions that remain at the heart of scientific inquiry: What makes a good theory? How do we measure time? Why does space have three dimensions? This faithful modern-English rendition preserves the brilliance of Poincaré's thought while removing the barriers of archaic prose. Part of The Modern Wisdom Library.
