Galileo's Middle Finger

Heretics, Activists, and the Search for Justice in Science

By: Alice Dreger

Narrated by: Tavia Gilbert

A powerful defense of intellectual freedom told through the ordeals of contemporary scientists attacked for exploring controversial ideas, by a noted science historian and medical activist.

An investigation of some of the most contentious debates of our time, Galileo's Middle Finger describes Alice Dreger's experiences on the front lines of scientific controversy, where for two decades she has worked as an advocate for victims of unethical research while also defending the right of scientists to pursue challenging research into human identities. Dreger's own attempts to reconcile academic freedom with the pursuit of justice grew out of her research into the treatment of people born intersex (formerly called hermaphrodites). The shocking history of surgical mutilation and ethical abuses conducted in the name of "normalizing" intersex children moved her to become a patient rights' activist. By bringing evidence to physicians and the public, she helped change the medical system.

©2015 Alice Dreger (P)2015 Gildan Media LLC

Thanks for doing what you do!

I learned a lot I didn’t know about Intersex people from this book! And am glad there’s people out there fighting against these folks who are trying to shout people out and spread lies for their own agenda.

Must Read

This is an essential read to see how science and truth get destroyed. Great information in entertaining narrative.

Anti- cancel culture

A somewhat discursive but ultimately satisfying tale of the USA's culture wars of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Could have done without the author's emotional travails but, as she says, that's part of her journey.

Superb.

Never see a doctor who hasn't read it... and appreciated it! Long live the middle finger.

Couldn't stop listening to this book

I wanted to read this book at my sister's insistance, because I love reading stories of this type as a scientist myself. But I didn't have time to read anything, so I downloaded the audio version instead. I finished it that same day, I couldn't stand to put it on pause. I listened all through work and on my comute to and fro, and loved it.

This book is so interesting, thoughtful, and so meticulously researched. I very much enjoyed it.