Cartas A Un Joven Científico (2014) - Plot & Excerpts
The book is laid out as a series of short letters or monographs aimed at someone trying to decide if a career in science may be the correct fit for them. It is part advice, part memoir, all colloquial - if you have ever heard Dr. Wilson give an interview or talk, it is the exact same voice. Sections do get very heavy into natural history and his studies of ants but don't let the technical areas dissuade you as there are many solid recommendations throughout the 20 different letters. While I cannot be considered a "Young Scientist" any longer, it was worth the read. My first rating for this book was 3-stars. But, after having a day to digest the material I have changed my rating to 5-stars. The reason I changed it is because of how Edward O. Wilson changed how I see the world. Dr. Wilson writes passionately about biology and enthusiastically about insects. Neither of his interests are interests of mine. I find insects interesting, but not so much so that I take an active interest - if an insect is nearby, then I'll pay attention to it. In the book he wrote about experiments involving ants where I was laughing because of how curious their behavior was, and I was intrigued by them. Today, I found myself not just noticing bees, but watching them gather pollen, and being completely fascinated by them while recalling passages about bees from the book. As far as I'm concerned, a book that you not only enjoy while reading and remember but one which becomes part of you is the mark of a good book. (There is also a chapter on ethics in science, which is good advice for anyone in any field.)
What do You think about Cartas A Un Joven Científico (2014)?
Had my attention in the beginning. Could have ended mid-way through. Nice ideas and suggestions.
—andy123
It was really inspiring, but tended to be pretty centralized on just a couple of fields.
—Amanda
