What Is Real?

What Is Real?

By Adam Becker

Pages

384

Rating

4.28

Year

2018

PhilosophyPhysicsHistoryScienceNonfictionAudiobook

Description

Every physicist agrees quantum mechanics is among humanity's finest scientific achievements. But ask what it means, and the result will be a brawl. For a century, most physicists have followed Niels Bohr's solipsistic and poorly reasoned Copenhagen interpretation. Indeed, questioning it has long meant professional ruin, yet some daring physicists, such as John Bell, David Bohm, and Hugh Everett, persisted in seeking the true meaning of quantum mechanics. What Is Real? is the gripping story of this battle of ideas and the courageous scientists who dared to stand up for truth.

Endorsements

"A thorough, illuminating exploration of the most consequential controversy raging in modern science." — New York Times Book Review

An Editor's Choice — New York Times Book Review

Longlisted for PEN/E.O. Wilson Prize for Literary Science Writing

Longlisted for Goodreads Choice Award

"An excellent, accessible account." — Wall Street Journal

"Splendid... Deeply detailed research, accompanied by charming anecdotes about the scientists." — Washington Post