Barbara Ryden's Cosmology Book: Reviews & Opinions

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around Barbara Ryden's Cosmology book, with participants sharing their opinions, reviews, and suggestions for alternative texts in cosmology. The scope includes personal reviews, recommendations for introductory materials, and comparisons with other books in the field.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about personal experiences with Ryden's Cosmology book, noting positive Amazon reviews but seeking additional opinions.
  • Another participant requests suggestions for other introductory cosmology texts suitable for upper undergraduate or beginning graduate levels, indicating a willingness to engage with general relativity (GR).
  • A participant mentions having written notes on various cosmology books and expresses intent to review Ryden's book after reading it.
  • One participant claims to have read Ryden's book and suggests it is suitable for those wanting to work through the mathematics, while recommending more advanced texts for those already familiar with the material.
  • Another participant shares a link to an Amazon listing for a different book, suggesting it is very up to date and mentioning a deal to purchase it alongside Ryden's book.
  • A subsequent post reiterates the previous mention of the Amazon book, emphasizing its updated content and sharing a personal anecdote about the authors' connection to their mentor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varied opinions on Ryden's book, with some supporting its mathematical approach while others suggest alternative texts. No consensus is reached regarding the best introductory material in cosmology.

Contextual Notes

Some participants' recommendations depend on their personal experiences and specific academic backgrounds, which may influence their views on the suitability of Ryden's book versus other texts.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students and educators seeking insights into introductory cosmology texts and personal reviews of Barbara Ryden's work, as well as those interested in recommendations for alternative resources in the field.

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I want to buy Barbara Ryden's Cosmology book. Has someone read it already and could say a few things about it? On amazon it gets nice reviews but what do you think?

thanks
 
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Suggestions for other introductory texts? (Upper undergraduate, beginning graduate level, i.e. not afraid of some GR)
 
thanks, chronon!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
matt.o said:
I just got an email from amazon about this book:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0805304029/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Which I am thinking of getting as it looks very up to date, in fact I think it is the most up to date book out there! There is also a deal on Amazon to by this and Rydens book.
They finally rewrote the book!

Carroll and Ostlie is one of the better (if not best IMO) general astrophysics textbooks around. My mentor here at Los Alamos actually provided them with their solar data for the previous edition (which was actually how I wound up meeting her, long story).
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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