"Starting with the Greek physician Galen and his discovery in the second century A.D. that arteries carry blood instead of air (the accepted belief of the time) and moving through the ages, Encyclopedia of World Scientists is a comprehensive and convenient reference about scientists and their work. The encyclopedia features 500 cross-referenced biographical profiles of scientific "greats" from the past as well as contemporary scientists whose work is of major significance.".

"Entries represent scientists from the traditional and nontraditional disciplines of anthropology, astronomy, biology, chemistry, computer science, Earth science, engineering, mathematics, medicine, philosophy of science, physics, and psychology. Included are incisive portraits of more than 200 women and minority scientists often excluded from similar reference books.".

"Each entry provides the subject's full name, birth and death dates, nationality, and field(s) of specialization. The biographical essays focus primarily on the scientist's work, achievements, and contributions to the relevant field, supplemented with information on family and educational background, to give the reader as well-rounded a profile as possible.".

"In addition to 100 black-and-white photographs, the encyclopedia features four indexes - arranged by field of specialization, nationality at birth or by citizenship, chronological order, and by subject area." "A fine primer for students and scholars, Encyclopedia of World Scientists recognizes the contributions of scientists past and present and their lingering impact on society and the environment."--BOOK JACKET.