THE NEW PROMETHEANS

by Robert S. De Ropp ‧ RELEASE DATE: Jan. 1, 1971

De Ropp rehashes here a number of thrice-told tales in the history of science. He outlines the development of the A-bomb, of preventive medicine, brain science, and genetics, using information available, and better written, in dozens of other books. De Ropp contributes only a peculiarly frenzied style (with lots of exclamation points and one-word sentences), and a forced dichotomy between Promethean scientists, the givers of knowledge, and Epimetheans, the gadgeteers and destroyers. He also manages to drag in an amazing number of anti-Communist tirades -- Marx is the worst Epimethean of all! The general approach views science as the product of a few great men, rather than a cumulatively developing technical society. This is similar to the approach to general history that assumes it is made purely by presidents, generals, and kings -- and about as distorted.

Pub Date: Jan. 1, 1971

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Delacorte

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Jan. 1, 1971

Categories: NONFICTION