In 1905, Albert Einstein published five scientific articles that fundamentally changed the world–view of physics: The Special Theory of Reativity revolutionized our concept of space and time, E=mc² became the best–known equation in physics.
On the occasion of the 100th aniversary of his "annus mirabilis" 1905, the UNESCO declared the year 2005 the "World Year of Physics", in order to draw attention to the impact of physics. The Max Planck Institute for the history of science dedicates an exhibition in the Kronprinzenpalais in Berlin to the probably most important scientist of the 20th century.
In this book, 100 authors explain the historical background of Einstein′s life and work, shed light on many different aspects of his biography, and on the scientific fields and topics that are connected to Einstein′s work. The authors are some of the most renowned Einstein researchers in the world, such as Jürgen Ehlers, Peter Galison, Zeev Rosenkranz, John Stachel and Robert Schulmann.
The essays form a bridge between scientific and cultural history, opening up a perspective on Einstein′s biography which goes beyond the traditional picture of the exceptional science genius.
"...an amazing array of fascinating photographs, charts, diagrams and documents on every page." (
Globe and Mail, December 9, 2006)
"Refreshing insights, superb illustrations and photographs, and analyses of the great man′s impact on today′s research make this book a constant delight." (NSTA Recommends, August 15, 2006)
"...allows one to reflect on not only Einstein′s role in the subsequent development of science, but on science′s role in....the shaping of human history." (MAA Reviews, February 17, 2006)
“...a unique and wonderful book...written in an easy–to–understand language...this is one of the books one cannot put down after opening it...” (Chromatographia, Vol 62 (7/8), October 2005)
"This fascinating and beautifully illustrated volume explores the great man′s life, science and cultural impact. (The Guardian)
“It is an excellent volume, which I would warmly recommend to anyone interested in the life and work of one of the greatest scientists...” (Materials World, April 2007)
"...an amazing array of fascinating photographs, charts, diagrams and documents on every page." (Globe and Mail, December 9, 2006)
"Refreshing insights, superb illustrations and photographs, and analyses of the great man′s impact on today′s research make this book a constant delight." (NSTA Recommends, August 15, 2006)
"...allows one to reflect on not only Einstein′s role in the subsequent development of science, but on science′s role in....the shaping of human history." (MAA Reviews, February 17, 2006)
“...a unique and wonderful book...written in an easy–to–understand language...this is one of the books one cannot put down after opening it...” (Chromatographia, Vol 62 (7/8), October 2005)
This fascinating and beautifully illustrated volume explores the great man′s life, science and cultural impact." (The Guardian)
"...an excellent volume, warmly recommended to anyone interested in the life and work of one of the greatest scientists..." (Materials World, April 2007)
