Alan Lightman and Martin Rees’s book, The Shape of Wonder: How Scientists Think, Work, and Live (2025), explores the lives of scientists by examining their inspirations, daily activities, backgrounds, and values. It highlights non-science-related aspects such as hobbies and family lives, which humanize scientists. A significant theme is their resilience in the face of failure, showcasing their inspiration, focus, and persistence. This is particularly uplifting for scientists who may need to remember their purpose amid challenging and often thankless efforts.
The book also addresses the rising tide of anti-science sentiment (Hotez, 2023), where fact-free policymaking in areas like public health and climate is becoming common. Attacks on scientists and universities undermine their credibility, allowing for a manipulation of science to favor power and financial interests. This backdrop positions science as a force against tyranny and in support of democratic principles (Mann and Hotez, 2025). However, while scholars excel in scientific inquiry, they often lack focus on advocating for democracy, despite its importance in combating anti-science narratives.
To enhance science’s credibility amid the anti-science environment, the authors propose understanding scientists’ motivations and lives. Mischaracterizations of scientists as ego-driven or harmful individuals have led to disrupted federal funding and strained academic content (e.g., Seminera, 2025). However, personal stories from scientists like Barbara McClintock reveal a different narrative, focusing on passion and joy in discovery.
Overall, The Shape of Wonder is an engaging read that emphasizes that while data and experiments are essential, the credibility of science relies on compelling narratives and trust. Scientists are portrayed as passionate individuals working towards understanding and improving the world, rather than as enemies of society.
