In this compelling CSS Breakdown: Book by Book episode, Season 04, Episode 20, we dive into the pivotal chapter titled 'On Science' from Will Durant's 'Fallen Leaves'. Join us as we explore Durant's nuanced view of scientific progress: from his humble acknowledgment of science's miraculous achievements—such as global communication and space exploration—to his candid skepticism regarding astronomers' calculations of stellar distances, geologists' dating of Earth, and physicists' changing models of the atom. This episode unpacks Durant's fascinating comparison of scientists to a 'new priesthood' whose pronouncements are beyond common understanding, yet are vital and necessary to statesmen. We also delve into his deep concern over science's capacity for destruction—mourning scientific genius dedicated to 'massacre' rather than peace, and warning that its latest victories have given 'frail minds the power to destroy Western civilization'. Listeners will discover Durant's specific critiques of fields like psychoanalysis, particularly Freud's dream theories and the Oedipus complex, and his visionary dreams for a better future, including electric automobiles and a focus on preventive healthcare and natural cures. Ultimately, this discussion highlights Durant's urgent call for harnessing knowledge with wisdom and conscience, applying power to humane purposes, and striving for a federated peace in a 'shattered, murderous, suicidal world', as humanity stands at a crossroads between incredible advancement and potential ruin.