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To Explain the World
432 pages, 2016
In this rich, irreverent, and compelling history, Nobel Prize-winning physicist Steven Weinberg takes us across centuries from ancient Miletus to medieval Baghdad and Oxford, from Plato’s Academy and the Museum of Alexandria to the cathedral school of Chartres and the Royal Society of London.
He shows that scientists in ancient and medieval times not only did not understand what we understand about the world—they did not understand what there is to understand, or how to understand it.
Yet over the centuries, through the struggle to solve such mysteries as the curious backward movement of the planets and the rise and fall of the tides, scientists eventually emerged with a new discipline: modern science.
In 'To Explain the World', Steven Weinberg takes us on a journey through the history of science. He shows us how scientific thought has evolved over centuries, from ancient Greece to the modern era. It's a fascinating look into how our understanding of the world has changed and grown.
Weinberg emphasizes the importance of questioning in scientific discovery. He encourages us to not just accept things as they are, but to dig deeper and ask why. This book will inspire you to question, explore, and seek out answers.
Weinberg, a Nobel laureate in Physics, highlights the crucial role physics plays in our understanding of the universe. He shows us how physics has helped us explain the world around us, from the smallest particles to the vastness of space.
In 'To Explain the World', Weinberg shows us that scientific discovery doesn't happen in a vacuum. He explores how cultural and historical context have shaped scientific thought and breakthroughs. It's a reminder that science is a human endeavor, influenced by our societies and times.
Throughout the book, Weinberg highlights the power of persistence in scientific discovery. He shows us that breakthroughs often come after years, even centuries, of research and exploration. It's a powerful reminder that persistence pays off, not just in science, but in any area of life.
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Weinberg's book is a thought-provoking exploration of the evolution of scientific thought, from the ancient Greeks to today. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the history of science.
Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-founderWeinberg's 'To Explain the World' is a masterful account of the history of science. It's a book that will enlighten and inspire anyone who reads it.
Richard Dawkins - Evolutionary BiologistWeinberg's book is a fascinating journey through the history of science. It's a must-read for anyone who wants to understand how we've come to know the world.
Neil deGrasse Tyson - Astrophysicist