Einstein's Cosmos

How Albert Einstein's Vision Transformed Our Understanding of Space and Time: Great Discoveries

By: Michio Kaku

Narrated by: Ray Porter

Length: 6 hrs and 30 mins

Publisher's summary

A dazzling tour of the universe as Einstein saw it.

How did Albert Einstein come up with the theories that changed the way we look at the world? By thinking in pictures. Michio Kaku, leading theoretical physicist (a cofounder of string theory) and best-selling science storyteller, shows how Einstein used seemingly simple images to lead a revolution in science. Daydreaming about racing a beam of light led to the special theory of relativity and the equation E = mc^2. Thinking about a man falling led to the general theory of relativity giving us black holes and the Big Bang. Einstein's failure to come up with a theory that would unify relativity and quantum mechanics stemmed from his lacking an apt image. Even in failure, however, Einstein's late insights have led to new avenues of research as well as to the revitalization of the quest for a "Theory of Everything".

With originality and expertise, Kaku uncovers the surprising beauty that lies at the heart of Einstein's cosmos.

©2004 Michio Kaku (P)2013 Audible, Inc.

How inspiring

I really enjoyed the book. I learned more about Physics and Albert Einstein. At the same time, since I'm not a working Physicist, it's darn near impossible to sort out all of the claims. One problem we now have is that so many disciplines stand on the shoulders of giants. So the knowledge required to really understand string theory can be daunting. And, given all the interesting research going on by various space agencies with the latest colliders, etc., it's hard to know if any of this fairly recent work should be altered to reflect those changes. I've offered a lot of caveats, and, this is still a great look at the impact of Einstein and his work on the work at large. It makes him more than a face on a T-shirt. Well worth your time.

Mountain grandma

Pure joy! Clear and interesting. Easy to understand. Unlike some books about it I have read.

A little dry, but informative and accessible

I have to say, I was a bit bored at times, but it was very informative, giving an overview of Einstein's life as well as physics in the early twentieth century.

fascinating

Would you listen to Einstein's Cosmos again? Why?

yes. The topic is a difficult one for a lay person to comprehend and I had to relisten to parts to really grasp the concept. It is so very interesting though and I feel it is explained in a way that can be understood.

What about Ray Porter’s performance did you like?

I liked his voice.

Any additional comments?

This book explains physics in a way that is understandable for lay people. I enjoyed all the history of physics and the times where the explorations occurred. So little of this is taught in school.

Well done

Very detailed with one exception and a very minor one, It was not mentioned Einstein used to run aground his sailboat and would need to be pulled out of the muck on the lake or pond where he sailed. Well done though.

Hella

Dope sauce mcgee squared to the power of wow like woah dude yes and yep

Great insight to a great mind.

Can't say I followed all the science, but this book does give some foresight into Einsteins thought process. I really knew nothing of his early life, and enjoyed listening about it.

The narrator does a very solid job, and the book is well written. I got a little confused with some of the heavier concepts, but still overall the author gives me at least a glimpse into it.

Totally intriguing - worth a second read or listen

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes. Very interesting, scientific, bringing lots of issues up, clarifying many scientific directions, complex issues, but so well-presented that every bit was interesting!

Outstanding overview of physics

Any additional comments?

This is a most enjoyable history of Einstein. What I loved more than anything is that some of his major theories were explained in an understandable way. You walk away from this book with an appreciation and understanding of Albert Einstein, the history of physics, and some of the more important theories.

Amazing story and beautifuly read

Michio Kako is a great science communicator but his skills as a life story teller were unknown for me. This book was a pleasant surprise. Also, this audiobook is probably the Best book narration I've heard. Very very recommended.