Why do giraffes have long necks? It can't really be for reaching tasty leaves since their main food is ground level bushes, tidy though that explanation would be. And how does relativity theory cope with the fact that the observable universe defies prediction by being far too small and anything but homogeneous? By inventing a vastly larger, but invisible, universe. And what exactly should we make of the scientists who claim to be witnessing thought itself, when the changes of blood flow in the brain that they observe are a thousand times slower than the neuronal activity it is supposed to reveal? A little scepticism is in order.Yet if philosophers of science, from Thomas Kuhn to Paul Feyerabend, have argued that science is a more haphazard process, driven by political fashion and short-term economic self-interest, today almost everyone seems to assume it is a vast jigsaw of interlocking facts pieced slowly but steadily together by expert practitioners.In this witty but profound 21st-century update on the issues, Martin Cohen offers vital clues for understanding not only the way knowledge develops, but also into the dangers of accepting too readily or too uncritically the claims of experts of all kinds - even philosophical ones! The claims are invariably presented as objective fact, yet are rooted in human subjectivity.

This interesting book about Rembrandt and his paintings was first written in 1905, and is just as enjoyable today. Featuring colour prints of 16 of his best paintings, this excellent introduction to one of the world's most famous painters is a great addition to any e-book collection. This version has been specially formatted for today's e-readers by Andrews UK.

Did you know that Will Smith was the original choice to play Neo in The Matrix? Or that the New Zealand censors cut The Muppet Movie because in their eyes it featured scenes of gratuitous violence? If you enjoy going to the movies, you will love this book which contains over one hundred amazing facts about your favourite flicks. Organised into sections such as stunts, cast members, bad decisions and more, this is the perfect addition for any film fan's bookshelf.

Twelve Month's is the story of a turbulent year in the life of Harry Shotta. A multi award winning MC who is known for his rapid fire delivery and versatility, this book gives readers an insight into the story behind his 'Twelve Months' mixtape. Delving into emotional memories from his childhood and a year which included extreme highs and lows it is a very personal and honest account of a year filled with 'love and pain in the fast lane'.

Do you love Dr Who? Are you a new fan of the show? This 50 Quick facts guide is ideal for both new and young fans who want an introduction to the show!

Do you love 5 Seconds of Summer, are you a fan of 5SOS, then you need these 50 More Quick facts about the band! With 50 MORE quick facts for fans!

Are you a longstanding member of the 5SOS Family? Or do you want to know everything there is to know about Luke, Michael, Calum and Ashton? If so, then this is the book for you! Contained within are 101 amazing facts about everything, from how the boys got started in the music business to some funny random facts, their favourite things and much, much more. The book is easily organised into sections so you can find the information you want fast and is perfect for all ages!

Are you the world's biggest Nicole Richie fan? Or do you want to know everything there is to know about the fashion designer, author and reality TV star? If so, then this is the book for you! Contained within are over one hundred facts about everything, from her unusual upbringing to her on/off friendship with Paris Hilton, her relationships, fashion lines and much, much more. The book is easily organised into sections so you can find the information you want fast and is perfect for all ages!

Pointless conversations: a selection of daft, ridiculous and utterly pointless meanderings from the mind of Scott Tierney. If you've ever wanted to know the answers to why Superman is a coward; why Spiderman should technically be deformed; and if Superdog caused the death of Krypton, then these bite-sized comics will reveal all. The discussions may be inane, and most of what is said is rambling, but despite this, you may find yourself agreeing with most of what is said. In this collection of short (but still pointless) conversations, we learn about fonts, the best part of a chicken, eating alien eggs, bargain DVDs and much more...

The A-Z of Sinclair ZX Spectrum Games: Volume 2 features reviews of three different games for each letter of the alphabet. The games range from the very earliest releases at the start of the eighties to the modern homebrew games of today. This book shows you just how diverse the library of titles is for the ZX Spectrum and how it became one of the popular computers of all time.

In this humorous Sherlock Holmes spoof, our hero is once again joined by his friend and colleague, Dr. John H. Watson and together they set out to try and solve the mystery of the extraordinary sugar disappearances sweeping the United Kingdom. Sound boring? Well, yes it does actually, but things are not always what they seem and in this newly-discovered narrative discovered in a dispatch box from the vaults of Cox & Co., London, we find Holmes at his deductive best. Dr. Watson chips in every now and then and Mrs. Hudson displays her true colours. Along the way there are cameo appearances by Inspector Lestrade and Wiggins of the Irregulars and of course it would not be complete without Holmes' arch-nemesis, Professor James Moriarty showing up. A hardboiled, sugar-free detective tale of adventure and intrigue.

An introduction to the history of British hip-hop as it finally escapes its reputation as the poor cousin of the American variant with a succession of hugely successful releases by the new stars of 'grime'. Alex Ogg, a notable author in this field having previously written The Hip Hop Years (and been a consultant on the accompanying BAFTA nominated documentary strand), The Men Behind Def Jam and Rap Lyrics: From The Sugarhill Gang to Eminem, is a long-term commentator on the global breakout of hip-hop. His latest book explores the unique factors at play in the development of this subculture, tracing it right back to the first key releases in the early 80s, to the false dawn of the early 90s, and finally the spectacular success of grime in the last two years. Key landmarks are addressed along that timeline, and important recordings and incidents appraised, including many first-hand quotes. The ill-defined and much misunderstood 'grime' genre is placed in a specific historical context, as well as sections on trip-hop and other contributory/parallel British musics. As well as offering a comprehensive foundation for those who wish to investigate this phenomenon, Ogg provides a recommended listening list as well as snapshots of the new heroes of grime, from Dizzee Rascal and Tinchy Snyder to Tinie Tempah.

So you think you know all about Lady Gaga from her early successes through to her current domination of the world music scene? But do you know her real name or how she got started in the music business? What about the lyrics to her songs or the influences behind her distinctive fashion choices? Find out how much you really know about the unique Ms Gaga with the 100 challenging questions in this brilliant quiz book. This book is packed with fascinating facts that cover all aspects of the singer-songwriter's life from chart topping hits, memorable lyrics, awards and accolades to less well known personal details, so you are sure to learn something new about your favourite pop star. The Lady Gaga Quiz Book is a fitting tribute to the woman who has taken the music industry by storm and in 2010 was dubbed by Forbes as one of the most powerful celebrities in the world today. There is only one Lady Gaga and this is the must-have reference guide for all of her fans.

Are you a Kylie Minogue fan? Have you followed the pint size pop princess's long and successful career from Neighbours actress to chart topping singing sensation? Can you name all of her albums? Were you aware that Kylie had written a children's book and can you reel off the title of her autobiography? Do you know exactly how tall she is? If so then this quiz book is just what you need to find out how much you really know about Kylie. This fun tribute contains 100 thought provoking questions about the multi award winning superstar and covers all aspects of Kylie's life, including TV and film appearances, world tours, chart positions, accolades and personal details. You are certain to find out something new about your favourite songster so be prepared for one or two surprises. Packed with fascinating facts, The Kylie Minogue Quiz Book is as informative as it is entertaining and is a must have for all music fans. If you like Kylie you will love this book.

Are you an expert on Take That? Have you followed every twist and turn in the amazing Take That story? Do you know all there is to know about the multi award winning, chart topping band? Then what better way to put your knowledge to the test than with the 100 questions in this quiz book, each one designed to challenge your memory of the events that have shaped the most popular UK boyband of all time. This book covers the phenomenal success of the early years to the band's break up and subsequent reunion as a four piece right through to Robbie Williams rejoining in 2010 to complete the original Take That line-up. The Take That Quiz Book is packed with information about your favourite group, including career highlights and low points, the many unforgettable hits, awards and accolades along with personal details of all the band members. This handy reference guide is must-have for all Take That fans and anyone interested in finding out more about one of the biggest success stories in recent music history.

The sitcom has proved to be one of the most enduring genres in British TV history, reflecting the social changes and national concerns of the time, and has brought many memorable and much-loved characters to our screens. Who can forget iconic figures like Frank Spencer, Basil Fawlty and Reggie Perrin or the antics of the Trotters, the Meldrews and the staff of Grace Brothers' department store, to name but a few? The 1,000 questions in The British TV Sitcom Quiz book will test your knowledge of your favourite series from yesteryear to the current day. From Steptoe and Son, Dad's Army and Porridge to Absolutely Fabulous, The Office, and My Family, this book is bulging with facts that will refresh your memory and help you to recapture some of those magical moments in situation comedy. With a fitting foreword by Brian Murphy from the hilarious '70s TV show George and Mildred and Nicholas Parsons OBE, this is a must-have book for all sitcom fans.

Bowie and Hutch Story

Are you a football fan? Do you support Tottenham Hotspur FC? Would you like to find out more about the club's long and successful history? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are certain to enjoy this informative Spurs reference guide.Did you know that Tottenham's record cup win is 13-2, in an FA Cup game against Crewe during February 1960? Or that Steve Perryman holds the record at White Hart Lane for making the most League appearances at the club, with 653 starts and two substitute appearances? With 101 facts all about Spurs, this is the book that Tottenham supporters can't be without. Perfect for match days or amusing the kids at home, this tribute to Spurs will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about this popular English Premier League team. So why not relive all those golden moments from days gone by and gen up on Spurs' glorious past with 101 Interesting Facts About Spurs? A simply must-have book for Tottenham supporters of all ages.

Le piante percepiscono il suono e amano suonare.Lo dimostrano studi e sperimentazioni condotte in ambito accademico e, ancora di più, le esperienze di numerosi ricercatori e musicisti che insegnano alle piante a usare apparecchiature musicali elettroniche e suonano e cantano insieme a loro.Le ricerche sull’intelligenza vegetale, sulla sensibilità delle piante e sulla loro disponibilità a dialogare con noi aprono la nostra mente verso una più profonda visione della natura e il nostro cuore a nuove occasioni di scambio con tutto ciò che è vivo intorno a noi.

In issuing this second treatise on Crayon Portraiture, Liquid Water Colors and French Crystals, for the use of photographers and amateur artists, I do so with the hope and assurance that all the requirements in the way of instruction for making crayon portraits on photographic enlargements and for finishing photographs in color will be fully met. To these I have added complete instructions for free-hand crayons. This book embodies the results of a studio experience of twenty-four years spent in practical work, in teaching, and in overcoming the everyday difficulties encountered, not alone in my own work, but in that of my pupils as well. Hence the book has been prepared with special reference to the needs of the student. It presents a brief course of precepts, and requires on the part of the pupil only perseverance in order that he may achieve excellence. The mechanical principles are few, and have been laid down in a few words; and, as nearly all students have felt, in the earlier period of their art work, the necessity of some general rules to guide them in the composition and arrangement of color, I have given, without entering into any profound discussion of the subject, a few of its practical precepts, which, it is hoped, will prove helpful. While this book does not treat of art in a very broad way, yet I am convinced that those who follow its teachings will, through the work they accomplish, be soon led to a higher appreciation of art. Although this kind of work does not create, yet who will say that it will not have accomplished much if it shall prove to be the first step that shall lead some student to devote his or her life to the sacred calling of art? It has been said that artists rarely, if ever, write on art, because they have the impression that the public is too ill-informed to understand them—that is, to understand their ordinarily somewhat technical method of expression. If, therefore, in the following pages I may sometimes seem to take more space and time for an explanation than appears necessary, I hope the student will overlook it, as I seek to be thoroughly understood. My hope with reference to this work is that it may prove of actual value to the earnest student in helping him reach the excellence which is the common aim of all true artists. ? ?J. A. Barhydt. About Author: To many who know nothing about the art of crayon portraiture, the mastery of it not only seems very difficult, but almost unattainable. In fact, any work of art of whatever description, which in its execution is beyond the knowledge or comprehension of the spectator, is to him a thing of almost supernatural character. Of course, this is more decided when the subject portrayed carries our thoughts beyond the realms of visible things. But the making of crayon portraits is not within the reach alone of the trained artist who follows it as a profession. I claim that any one who can learn to write can learn to draw, and that any one who can learn to draw can learn to make crayon portraits. Making them over a photograph, that is, an enlargement, is a comparatively simple matter, as it does not require as much knowledge of drawing as do free-hand crayons. But you must not suppose that, because the photographic enlargement gives you the drawing in line and an indistinct impression of the form in light and shade, you are not required to draw at all in making a crayon portrait over such an enlargement. Some knowledge of drawing is necessary, though not a perfect knowledge. Many people err in supposing that only the exceptionally skilled can produce the human features in life-like form upon the crayon paper. While recognizing great differences in natural aptitude for drawing in different persons, just as those who use the pen differ widely in their skill, some being able to write with almost mechanical perfection of form, I still hold that any one who is able to draw at all can succeed in producing creditable crayons.. J. A. Barhydt.

The excellence of the following Treatise is so well known to all in any tolerable degree conversant with the Art of Painting, that it would be almost superfluous to say any thing respecting it, were it not that it here appears under the form of a new translation, of which fome account may be expected. Of the original Work, which is in reality a selection from the voluminous manuscript collections of the Author, both in Solio and Quarto, of all such passages as related to Painting, no edition appeared in print till 1651. Though its Author died so long before as the year 1519; and it is owing to the circumstance of a manuscript copy of these extracts in the original Italian, having fallen into the hands of “Raphael” that in the former of these years it was published at Paris in a thin folio volume in that language, accompanied with a set of cuts from the drawings of Niccolo Pouissin, and Alberti, the former having designed and defined the human figures, the latter the geometrical and other representations.. The first translation of this Treatise into English, appeared in the year 1721. It does not declare by whom it was made; but though it prosesses to have been done from the original Italian, it is evident, upon a comparison, that more use was made of the revised edition of the French translation. Indifferent, however, as it is, it had become fo scarce, and risen to a price fo extravagant, that, to supply the demand, it was found necessary, in the year 1796, to reprint it as it stood, with all its errors on its head, no opportunity then offering of procuring a french translation. This last impression, however, being now alfo disposed of, and a new one again called for, the present Translator was induced to step forward, and undertake the office of frenh translating it, on finding, by comparing the former versions both in French and English with the original, many passages which he thought might at once be more concisely and more faithfully rendered. ABOUT AUTHOR: Leonardo di ser Piero da Vinci (15 April 1452 – 2 May 1519) was an Italian painter, sculptor, architect, musician, mathematician, engineer, inventor, anatomist, geologist, cartographer, botanist, and writer. He is widely considered to be one of the greatest polymaths of all time and perhaps the most diversely talented person ever to have lived. His genius, perhaps more than that of any other figure, epitomized the Renaissance humanist ideal. Leonardo has often been described as the archetype of the Renaissance Man, a man of "unquenchable curiosity" and "feverishly inventive imagination". Marco Rosci states that while there is much speculation about Leonardo, his vision of the world is essentially logical rather than mysterious, and that the empirical methods he employed were unusual for his time. Born out of wedlock to a notary, Piero da Vinci, and a peasant woman, Caterina, in Vinci in the region of Florence, Leonardo was educated in the studio of the renowned Florentine painter Verrocchio. Much of his earlier working life was spent in the service of Ludovico il Moro in Milan. He later worked in Rome, Bologna and Venice, and he spent his last years in France at the home awarded him by Francis I. Leonardo was, and is, renowned as one of the greatest painters of all time. Among his works, the Mona Lisa is the most famous and most parodied portrait and The Last Supper the most reproduced religious painting of all time, with their fame approached only by Michelangelo's The Creation of Adam. Leonardo's drawing of the Vitruvian Man is also regarded as a cultural icon, being reproduced on items as varied as the euro coin, textbooks, and T-shirts. Perhaps fifteen of his paintings have survived, the small number because of his constant, and frequently disastrous, experimentation with new techniques, and his chronic procrastination. Nevertheless, these few works, together with his notebooks, which contain drawings, scientific diagrams, and his thoughts on the nature of painting, compose a contribution to later generations of artists rivalled only by that of his contemporary, Michelangelo. Leonardo is revered for his technological ingenuity. He conceptualised flying machines, an armoured vehicle, concentrated solar power, an adding machine, and the double hull, also outlining a rudimentary theory of plate tectonics.