Introduction Prologue 1. The Development of Modern Science and the Birth of the Sociology of Science 2. Paradigms and Styles of Thought: A 'Social Window' on Science? 3. Is Mathematics Socially Shaped? The Strong Programme 4. Inside the Laboratory 5. Tearing Bicycles and Missiles Apart: The Sociology of Technology 6. Science Wars' 7. Communicating Science 8. A New Science? References. Index of Names

In this fascinating book, Massimiano Bucchi provides a much needed introduction to a rapidly growing subject area. This text brings theory alive and will be essential reading for all students of the sociology of science.