"A biography of the great astronomer and scientist, and an examination of the faith vs. science question, then and now, written by a noted astrophysicist and author"-- At present, we face enormous crises, such as the minimization of the dangers of climate change because the science behind these threats is erroneously questioned or ignored. Galileo encountered this problem 400 years ago. His discoveries contradicted the teachings of the church at the time, and his books were forbidden by church authorities. Livio provides insights into how Galileo reached his bold new conclusions about the cosmos and the laws of nature. He remains a hero and inspiration to scientists and all of those who respect science, which remains threatened even today. -- adapted from jacket. Provided by publisher.

Rebel with a cause -- A humanist scientist -- A leaning tower and inclined planes -- A Copernican -- Every action has a reaction -- Into a minefield -- This proposition is foolish and absurd -- A battle of pseudonyms -- The assayer -- The Dialogo -- The gathering storm -- The trial -- I abjure, curse, and detest -- One old man, two new sciences -- The final years -- The saga of Pio Paschini -- Galileo's and Einstein's thoughts on science and religion -- One culture.