Six lectures, all regarding the most revolutionary discoveryin twentieth-century physics: Einstein's Theory of Relativity. Noone--not even Einstein himself--explained these difficult,anti-intuitive concepts more clearly, or with more verve and gusto,than Feynman.
This book reprints the six easiest chapters from Feynman'scelebrated Lectures on Physics (LJ 12/15/63), which the NobelPrize-winning scientist delivered from 1961 to 1963 at theCalifornia Institute of Technology. Intended for as wide anaudience as possible, these chapters are primarily qualitative innature, with a minimum of formal mathematics. They discuss atoms,basic physics, the relation of physics to other sciences, theconservation of energy, gravitation, and quantum behavior. Whilethis informative work provides a relevant historical perspective onthe essentials of physics, the result is somewhat superficial.Nonetheless, because Lectures on Physics is out of print andbecause the information is still relevant, reprinting thesespecific chapters was probably a realistic move. The material willbe readily understood by scholars, physics students, and informedlay readers. Recommended for academic and public libraries. (Audiotape and CD packages are also available.)-Donald G. Frank, HarvardUniv. Lib., Cam
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"The whole thing was basically an experiment," Richard Feynmansaid late in his career, looking back on the origins of hislectures. The experiment turned out to be hugely successful,spawning a book that has remained a definitive introduction tophysics for decades. Ranging from the most basic principles ofNewtonian physics through such formidable theories as generalrelativity and quantum mechanics, Feynman's lectures stand as amonument of clear exposition and deep insight. Now, we arereintroducing the printed books to the trade, fully corrected, forthe first time ever, and in collaboration with Caltech. Timelessand collectible, the lectures are essential reading, not just forstudents of physics but for anyone seeking an introduction to thefield from the inimitable Feynman.
