The theme of this book was chosen because of the great concern with the worldwide decreasing interest in the natural sciences. The image of these sciences as dull, uninspiring, masculine, environmentally unfriendly and very technical was mentioned as an important reason. Historical context would help in the discussions around these recent perceptions. Many intriguing questions are discussed. How is the changing image of the sciences experienced by the general public, by the scientists themselves, or in disciplines in which natural sciences are applied? How can it be connected to the phenomenon of the low number of women in science? The book should be useful to a broad spectrum of readers, from our colleagues in universities to the general public. It can very well be used as a textbook in undergraduate courses in the history of science and in science and society. In addition, the individual chapters can stand on their own and be studied in courses in the various sciences, or in philosophy.
