Does the general public need to understand science? And if so, is it scientists' responsibility to communicate? Critics have argued that, despite the huge strides made in technology, we live in a "scientifically illiterate" society--one that thinks about the world and makes important decisions without taking scientific knowledge into account. But is the solution to this "illiteracy" to deluge the layman with scientific information? Or does science news need to be focused around specific issues and organized into stories that are meaningful and relevant to people's lives? In this...

New information is presented by one of the world's foremost authorities on weathervanes in this fascinating study. Classic and never-before-seen pieces illustrate the distinctive vitality of this folk art form. Weathervanes from the mid to late 19th century have come to be considered three-dimensional sculpture, suitable for decorating modern corporate offices and homes. Dynamic wooden and metal weathervanes are organized into groups by the assorted forms they depict. Manufacturers are identified, and their back-grounds are explored. The weathervanes in this superb book are guaranteed to...