Originally I thought that this book would be about the history of the Royal Society, & to some degree the early chapters were. Then the book went on to explore current science & science policy. I'll admit, for me, the chapters on climate change were slightly tedious, but I have to admit that this subject is very high on the list of all thinking people.

Baron Rees' epilogue I thought was a particularly good wrap up. What will happen to us in 50 years? There are no answers but I think a good many disturbing trends.

In the end the books is a good selection of beginning-mid-level science essays that a well rounded, intelligent, modern person will find well worthwhile.