"State of Fear"

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses how "State of Fear" makes it clear that one really needs to investigate bias when evaluating a proposed scientific theory. "State of Fear" also makes it clear that it is not always easy to determine potential sources of bias. For example, a modern audience can easily identify racism as a source of bias for eugenicists, while this was covered up in the past. The paper contends that "State of Fear" makes some very salient points about the need for more careful evaluation of scientific statements. The paper emphasizes that the goal of Crichton's novel was not necessarily to advocate his point of view, but to encourage people to do their own investigations into the issue.

From the Paper:

"The history of technology and the evaluation of technology can help one make decisions on important issues like global warming by providing people with the scientific knowledge necessary to evaluate the various claims one encounters regarding the relationship between technology and the environment. In fact, because most people have a somewhat limited knowledge base in technological matters, it is easy for people to misunderstand certain ecological issues. For example, the main sources of public information regarding the interrelationship between the environment and technology come from biased sources. Therefore, if people in society make their own efforts to understand technology, they will be in a better position to make the decisions necessary to ensure ecological integrity for the people of the future."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Crichton, Michael. State of Fear. New York: HarperCollins, 2004.

More papers on "State of Fear":

• Analytical Essay # 138848 : "State of Fear" by Michael Crichton"
• Essay # 137755 : "The Ecology of Fear: Los Angeles and the Imagination of Disaster (a Review)"
• Essay # 31695 : "Fear of Crime in North America"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: