Journalist and bestselling author Mooney and scientist Kirshenbaum offer an impassioned polemic about the dangers of America's scientific illiteracy. They go on to propose a broad array of initiatives that could lead to a greater integration of science into the national discourse.

From a scientist and a writer -- Why Pluto matters -- Rethinking the problem of scientific illiteracy -- The rise and cultural decline of American science -- From Sputnik to Sagan -- Third culture, or nerd culture? -- Different rifts, still divided -- Science Escape 2008 -- Unpopular science -- Hollywood and the mad scientists -- Bruising their religion -- The future in our bones -- The bloggers cannot save us -- Is our scientists learning? -- Conclusion: a new mission for American science.