Is that a bad thing? For me the value wasn't in the cookbook aspect but in the explanation of the practical considerations when it comes to engineering a design.

Knowing a parameter in detail isn't nearly as important as knowing if that parameter matters in the scope of the final design.

The book is also pretty honest about that and goes to pretty good lengths to guide readers to deeper material if it's an area they want to understand in greater depth.

Yup, I've lent/given away my various copies over the years many times.

A true testament that even in there modern days the principals taught are still solid.