The story of science is often told as a series of flashes of brilliance-those famous eureka moments. But the truth is that rivalry, power, influence and sheer blind chance have played equally significant roles. In this compelling history of science from ancient times to the present day, the authors trace the breakthroughs in every area of science, explaining the pioneering theories and showing how the discoveries were powerfully shaped both by the world outside the laboratories, and by the personalities of the scientists themselves - their ambition, courage and fears. The authors show us that great science happens when brilliant minds-including Aristarchus, Pythagoras, Copernicus, Galileo, Newton and Einstein-collide with new discoveries and tools at specific points in history. Filled with illuminating graphics, including key experiments, The Story of Science challenges easy assumptions about scientific progress and provides a behind-the-scenes look at how science really works.