this anthology contains 21 papers by prominent historians and philosophers of science, philosophers of education, science educators and science teachers. it is expansive in its subject matter, and detailed in its analysis. the common thread in all papers is the contribution that the history and philosophy of science makes to theoretical, curricular, and pedagogical issues in science education. this is a timely focus as, worldwide, there are increasing demands made on science curriculum writers and teachers to ensure that students come to know something of the `nature of science, or something about the `big picture of science. this means knowing something of the history and methodology of science, its relations with world views, and how science articulates with social and cultural values and interests. the contributions show how historically and philosophically informed teaching of science can create this `big picture knowledge about science, which in turn allows science to inform culture and social life.