No wishy-washy apologist for the scientific method, A. K. Dewdney firmly applies the rigid rod of logic not only to Sigmund Freud, but also to the SETI project, IQ, Biosphere 2, and other trendy pseudosciences - and in Yes, We Have No Neutrons, he beats them to a pulp.
Remembering the intense rejection I got in college when I objected to Freud's work as lacking rigor, it was a pleasure to see the old quack neatly dissected. On the other hand, I've been rather fond of the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence project. It was less fun to have my own ox gored. Nonetheless, Dewdney makes a good case that it is unworthy of public support.
Dewdney puts each case into historical perspective. Enjoy the intrigue and manipulation behind the cold fusion story and get brought up to date on where it's headed.
The scientific method is humankind's strongest tool for keeping us from folly and self-delusion. In an age in which the gullible kill themselves to get aboard an imagined spaceship, we need more books like this - especially if they're this much fun to read.
##### Yes, We Have No Neutrons, by A. K. Dewdney. US$22.95. John Wiley & Sons: +1 (212) 850 6000.
STREET CRED
Steve ReichRapoon
Freud as Fraud
