From a living legend--James D. Watson, who shared the Nobel Prize
for having revealed the structure of DNA--a personal account of the
making of a scientist. In "Avoid Boring People, " the man who
discovered "the secret of life" shares the less revolutionary
secrets he has found to getting along and getting ahead in a
competitive world.
Recounting the years of his own formation--from his father's
birding lessons to the political cat's cradle of professorship at
Harvard--Watson illuminates the progress of an exemplary scientific
life, both his own pursuit of knowledge and how he learns to
nurture fledgling scientists. Each phase of his experience yields a
wealth of age-specific practical advice. For instance, when young,
never be the brightest person in the room or bring more than one
date on a ski trip; later in life, always accept with grace when
your request for funding is denied, and--for goodness' sake--don't
dye your hair. There are precepts that few others would find
occasion to heed (expect to gain weight after you win your Nobel
Prize, as everyone will invite you to dinner) and many more with
broader application (do not succumb to the seductions of golf if
you intend to stay young professionally). And whatever the season
or the occasion: avoid boring people.
A true believer in the intellectual promise of youth, Watson offers
specific pointers to beginning scientists about choosing the
projects that will shape their careers, the supreme importance of
collegiality, and dealing with competitors within the same
institution, even one who is a former mentor. Finally he addresses
himself to the role and needs of science at large universities in
the context of discussing the unceremonious departure of Harvard's
president Larry Summers and the search for his successor.
Scorning political correctness, this irreverent romp through
Watson's life and learning is an indispensable guide to anyone
plotting a career in science (or most anything else), a primer
addressed both to the next generation and those who are entrusted
with their minds.
"From the Hardcover edition."
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