Title: The Elegant Universe: Superstrings, Hidden Dimensions, and the Quest for the Ultimate Theory
Publisher: Norton, New York, New York
Publication Date: 1999
ISBN 10: 0393046885
ISBN 13: 9780393046885
Binding: Hardcover
Condition: Very Good
Dust Jacket Condition: Very Good

About this title

Synopsis

Physicists and mathematicians throughout the world are working on one of the most ambitious theories ever proposed: superstring theory. String theory, as it is often called, is the key to the Unified Field Theory that eluded Einstein for more than 30 years. Finally, the century-old antagonism between the large and the small - General Relativity and Quantum Theory - is resolved. String theory proclaims that all of the wondrous happenings in the universe, from the frantic dancing of of subatomic quarks to the swirling of galaxies, are reflections of one grand physical principle and manifestations of one single entity: microscopically tiny vibrating loops of energy, a billionth of a billionth the size of an atom. In this work, Brian Greene relates the scientific story and the human struggle behind 20th-century physics' search for a theory of everything. Through the use of metaphor and analogy, this work makes some of the most sophisticated concepts accessible, aiming to bring the reader closer to an understanding of how the universe works.

Review

To write a book to explain in simple, non-mathematical terms what superstring theory is in not a simple task. In The Elegant Universe Brian Greene, a physicist who works in the area, does a very good job. Superstrings are a theory of particle physics that lays claim to being the ultimate "Theory of Everything", merging Einstein's relativity and quantum mechanics into an understanding of the physics of the very small and very large in the Universe. Hence to understand superstrings, relativity and quantum mechanics have to be explained as well. In this Brian Greene does a very good job, giving one of the best explainations of relativity I have read in the process. Superstring theory is still very much in its infancy and The Elegant Universe does not claim that all the problems have been solved; in fact a point is made of pointing out all the present deficiencies of the theory.

Probably not a book for the very beginner, but anyone who has read popular accounts of particle physics and relativity should gain a lot from reading this book. In places not an easy read, not for the style (which was generally very easy) but simply for the difficulty of some of the concepts involved. Superstring theory may or may not be the theory of everything but this book will certainly tell you what we think we know so far. Definitely recommended, but don't expect to read it in a weekend. --Simon Goodwin

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

Between the Covers is located in a converted 1915 brick school building. You can find us at bookfairs, or subscribe to our catalog mailing list. Samples available upon request. We also provide an elist, please subscribe on our website www.betweenthecovers.com.

Visit Seller's Storefront

Association Member

Members of these associations are committed to maintaining the highest standards. They vouch for the authenticity of all items offered for sale. They provide expert and detailed descriptions, disclose all significant defects and/or restorations, provide clear and accurate pricing, and operate with fairness and honesty during the purchase experience.

Seller's business information

Between the Covers-Rare Books, Inc. ABAA
112 Nicholson Road, Gloucester City, NJ, 08030, U.S.A.

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

All books are first editions unless otherwise noted. New Jersey residents will be asked for 7% sales tax. All items guaranteed, all items subject to prior sale. Members ABAA, ILAB.
112 Nicholson Road, Gloucester City, New Jersey 08030
books@betweenthecovers.com
Telephone 856-456-8008

Shipping Terms

Orders usually ship within 2 business days. Our $8.00 rate is for UPS or Priority Mail. Our $4.50 rate is media mail which can take a week or two, or a month or two (rarely, but has happened). We email tracking information for all domestic shipments. Shipping costs are based on books weighing 2.2 LB, or 1 KG. If your book order is heavy or oversized, we may contact you to let you know extra shipping is required.