Quantum Theory

A Very Short Introduction

De: John Polkinghorne

Narrado por: Dennis Holland

Quantum theory is the most revolutionary discovery in physics since Newton. This book gives a lucid, exciting, and accessible account of the surprising and counterintuitive ideas that shape our understanding of the sub-atomic world. It does not disguise the problems of interpretation that still remain unsettled 75 years after the initial discoveries. Uncertainty, probabilistic physics, complementarity, the problematic character of measurement, and decoherence are among the many topics discussed. This volume offers the listener access to one of the greatest discoveries in the history of physics and one of the outstanding intellectual achievements of the 20th century.

©2002 John Polkinghorne (P)2021 Tantor

Fantastic!

Great overview, masters conciseness and education. Not sure this would be good for a beginner but I enjoyed it.

VSI # 69

Quantum Theory is a challenging subject to present in VSI form. You've got about 100 (+/- 30 pages) to give an intelligent, compelling introduction to one of the most challenging area of science directed at amateurs and/or undergraduates. Oof! Polkinghorne does an amazing job. Most of my reviews of the 40+ VSIs I've read tend to fall between 3 and 4 stars. This one is different. First, Polkinghorne lands the information. He presents a difficult subject matter in an intelligent way. Second, he does it with style. I was telling my wife one of the reasons i love reading about Quantum Physics is it is drama AND poetry. You've got great characters, but the subject matter itself lends itself to metaphors and poetry (see Carlo Rovelli).

Case in point with this book: in a section dealing with the difficulty in understanding Quantum Theory (the math is easier than understanding what's actually going on), the author dismissing scientists who might settle for not understanding the detailed character of particular physical properties, and calls that approach "a treason of the clerks". What a beautiful use of that idiom. Perfect. No notes sir.

history & explanation of quantum mechanics

Loved the history, historical context and discussion of both the topic and development of quantum thought & theory

Topical with only thumbnail views of the physics

this is a great book for a novice not wanting any math and taking a philosophical view

Must Listen

If you are interested in this subject, must listen. Fantastic book, at times was over my head, but loved it!

Well done

Very accessible summary . Concise and informative. Well done …
Worth a listen
Etc etc etc etc etc