Uncertainty: Einstein, Heisenberg, Bohr, and the Struggle for the Soul of Science
Anchor - Anchor
Release date: 2008-02-12
Paperback
Author: David Lindley
History Of Science, Science, Science/Mathematics, General, History, Physics, Science / General
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Uncertainty: Einstein, Heisenberg, Bohr, and the Struggle for the Soul of Science
Date undefinedDavid Lindley's 2008 256-page paperback "Uncertainty" presents the modern "struggle for the soul of science". This is an informative read explaining the origins for postmodern science's withdrawal from quantum theory.
Lindley here brings to the table a historical analysis of nuclear physics and atomic physics. He reviews the principal players in this drama (Brown, Darwin, the Curies, Plank, Einstein, Bohr, Heisenberg, and many more). The book considers Brownian movement, Einsteinian relativity, Rutherford's atomic theory, Sommerfeld's fourth quantum number, Heisenberg's half quantum number, and many more physics discoveries through the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
With an eye to making this history more informative, and perhaps technical science more applicable, Lindley includes many interesting anecdotes. Biographical sketches tell the history. Many 19th century scientists were churchmen because of the vigorous clergy educational requirements (page 16). Einstein began his career as a patent office clerk (page 27). The vacationing Bohr brothers barely escaped Germany, as it closed borders behind them, half an hour after the Kaiser's declaring war on Russia (page 57). Pauli was an undergraduate amidst 1919 Germany's red and white terrors (page 71). Lindley shows scientists' political leanings, religious attitudes, personal biases, and likes and dislikes for one another.
Lindley's presentation here seemingly suggests contemporary science's emergent exit from quantum mechanics. From its earliest days quantum has remained confusing and unpredictable (Einstein was among the first to question its uncertain nature). Today's science continues to look for alternatives to quantum that are more sure and true.
Although this small book is somewhat technical, Lindley adeptly works to put all theories and scientific language into lay language. Even the most scientifically inept will find this book readable and interesting. The book is authoritative and well researched with 17 pages of endnotes. It is recommended to everyone in the sciences and humanities.
Uncertainty: Einstein, Heisenberg, Bohr, and the Struggle for the Soul of Science
Date undefinedAn excellent review of the panoply of human life: its genius; its foibles. Anyone who imagines scientists are some sort of sacred band, far, far above us, the humble 'serfs' of the planet will see in this book that even the most celebrated, most intelligent scientist has feet of clay. (Or at least a toe or two are of clay.)
At another level, the author brings us into the disturbing world of sub-atomic phenomena while exploring the mysteries of the broad universe. Having an extensive background in science is not needed to learn much of our strange world and the equally strange personalities involved in the endless struggle to understand.
Highly recommended to any one able to read English and comprehend the story, which is anyone with the curiosity to explore. For me, it was a quick, enjoyable, enlightening read.
Uncertainty: Einstein, Heisenberg, Bohr, and the Struggle for the Soul of Science
Date undefinedMore entertaining than scientific, maybe that's the way it must be to garner a wide readership, but I would have liked more physics. Still, I have to admit this is the first book I remember reading twice in a row, with a short side trip to my modern physics textbook (confession: I have a degree in engineering and applied physics)inbetween. The author pretty much ignores Max Planck's contributions, mentioning them in context again & again without ever telling us what he did to begin with. But, don't mistake here - this is a very much worthwhile read.
