Old Wine in a New Bottle

摘要

David J. Hand, Professor of Mathematics, Imperial College London, has published Measurement, A Very Short Introduction, is a unique contribution to the measurement literature. An enormous amount of information is consolidated across diverse fields, which broadens the dialogue about scientific measurement and instills a sense of continuity frequendy absent in measurement discussions. Deterministic measures of length and weight among others establish foundations for fundamental measures, which provide an introduction to international standardization in physical sciences. This powerful framework then contrasts with weaker quantitative developments in the nonphysical sciences. The author is especially effective in providing a comprehensive and coherent narrative that eases technical background and makes this introduction accessible to a broad audience. In general, the author succeeds in introducing new students to the diversity of scientific measures and the immense challenges involved in developing them. Despite organizational and conceptual shortcomings, which are discussed below, this book is a useful introduction to a complex field. The following sections provide my perspective on contemporary measurement, which establishes a context for my commentary.