The Rise of String Theory, the Fall of a Science, and What Comes Next
by Lee Smolin
In this groundbreaking book, the renowned theoretical physicist Lee Smolin argues that fundamental physicsthe search for the laws of natureis losing its way. One of the major problems, according to Smolin, is the growing gulf between the speculations of theorists and reality as revealed by experiment. Ambitious ideas about extra dimensions, exotic particles, multiple universes, and strings have captured our imaginations. But these ideas have not been tested experimentally, and somestring theory, for exampleseem to offer no possibility for experimental tests. And because these ideas have tied up funding and talent to the detriment of other pursuits, they threaten to impede the progress of science. With clarity, passion, and authority, Smolin charts the rise and fall of string theory and takes a fascinating look at what will replace it.
"Courting controversy, Smolin is a reflective, self-confident challenger to pro-string physicist - authors Brian Greene, Leonard Susskind, and Michio Kaku." - Booklist.
"This isn't easy reading, but it will appeal to dedicated science buffs interested in where physics may be headed in the next decade." - Publishers Weekly.
"...clearly written...with a passion all too rare in popular science books..." - The Toronto Star.
"It would be hard to imagine a better guide to this difficult subject." - Scientific American.
"[A] substantial and serious exploration of [string] theory's vulnerabilities." - New York Times.
"This is a well-written, critical profile of the theoretical physics community, free of equations, from the perspective of a member." - Library Journal.
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