Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around recommendations for books that cover the history of solid state physics. Participants share various titles and express their opinions on the nature of these works, including their depth and focus.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant inquires about the best books on the history of solid state physics and mentions "Out of the Crystal Maze" by Lillian Hoddeson as a known title.
- Another participant notes that Hoddeson's book is a serious history rather than a popular one and mentions enjoying "Mott Beginnings of Solid State Physics" as well.
- A different participant recommends "Riordan Crystal Fire" for a specific topic and "Bitter Magnets" for a biography.
- One participant suggests that classic texts by Seitz and Slater contain significant historical context and provides links to these works.
- Another participant echoes the sentiment about Seitz and Slater's texts and mentions a technical biography by Slater, although they have not read it.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree on the value of Hoddeson's book and the classic texts by Seitz and Slater, but there are multiple competing views regarding other recommended titles and the nature of the histories discussed.
Contextual Notes
Some participants highlight that there are many histories focused on specific topics and biographies, indicating a diversity of literature in the field.
Who May Find This Useful
Readers interested in the history of solid state physics, including students, researchers, and enthusiasts of the subject.