- #1
Reshma
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I've recently purchased "Cosmos" by the late Carl Sagan. Has anyone over here read it, if so tell me how is it?
Cosmos by Carl Sagan: Reviews & Opinions
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the book "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan, including participants' experiences with the book, its use in educational settings, and comparisons to the accompanying video series. The scope includes personal reviews, recommendations for supplementary materials, and reflections on the impact of Sagan's work on interest in science.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- Some participants express enjoyment of "Cosmos" as a reading experience, while others are surprised by its use as a textbook.
- Several participants recommend the accompanying study guide and video series as essential supplements to the book.
- One participant notes that the book's information is somewhat outdated but still relevant, missing recent discoveries in astronomy.
- Another participant emphasizes the lasting impact of the TV series on inspiring interest in science, particularly among younger audiences.
- Some participants discuss the challenges of obtaining the DVD series, especially in different regions, while expressing a desire for more inspiring science programming today.
- Recommendations for other works by Sagan, such as "The Demon-Haunted World" and "Billions and Billions," are shared, with varying opinions on their quality compared to "Cosmos."
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree on the value of "Cosmos" and its supplementary materials, but there are differing opinions on the book's suitability as a textbook and the relevance of its content today. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best way to engage with Sagan's work and its impact on modern audiences.
Contextual Notes
Some participants mention the need for supplementary materials to fully appreciate the book, indicating potential limitations in its standalone value. There are also references to the book's age and the evolution of scientific understanding since its publication.
Who May Find This Useful
Readers interested in astronomy, Carl Sagan's works, or the historical context of science communication may find this discussion valuable.
- #2
polyb
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Reshma said:
It was actually an introductory astronomy course I took a while back that was based on the book, study guide, and video series. Of course I aced the class because I saw the series when it first came out. The book is not a bad read but I would highly recommend that you get the study guide and the video series. They will fill you in on a lot more details than are in the book. The videos are really the centerpiece of his work. The video series is excellent and the study guide has a lot of interesting articles. Enjoy!
- #3
Integral
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I found the book to be a nice read. I am surprised that it would be used as a textbook, but perhaps that is why you need the suplementary materials. Quit talking and start reading.
- #4
polyb
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Integral said:
Tell me about it, when I signed up I thought it was going to be an astronomy course but it turned out to be one of those meet 3 times in the semester, watch the videos, and take a couple of tests. I was a little disappointed but I did enjoy watching the videos again and the study guide had some interesting articles.
- #5
Phobos
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Reshma said:
The TV documentary was aired back in 1980 and it was amazing...inspired a generation of people to appreciate astronomy (including me).
The book was also a great introduction to astronomy & modern physics, but perhaps I'm biased toward the TV show because I saw that first. Sagan's manner of speech is unique.
The information in the book is 20 years old, but still very modern...it just misses out on the recent discoveries (e.g., recent planetary explorations, discovery of an accelerating expansion of the universe, etc.)
- #6
Reshma
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Thanks for the replies everyone. Now that my exams are over, I can read this book at my own pace! 
- #7
infidel
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I never read the book, but I'd recommend geting the series on DVD. Although I'd say a good 90+% of the science is still valid, the DVD contains subtitles and short video clips of Sagan at the end of each episode which updates the small bit that has dated. Well worth the (rather large) investment, IMHO. It was the series that prompted me to interest in science. It's a shame kids these days don't have anything like it to watch.
- #8
Reshma
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infidel said:
Your DVD suggestion is excellence provided I find one at my place(in India). It was hell a trouble finding the book itself so a DVD is far-fetched story. I should be more than happy with the book alone for now
.I completely agree with you on this. There is a virtual absence of inspiring television programmes on science.
- #9
infidel
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Oh Reshma, didn't notice you're in India.
Well, for what it's worth, the DVD is NTSC (which I think they use in India, no?) and it's Region 0 which means it will play in any player. So contact CarlSagan.com and get a copy.
BTW, as far as books go, I'd also highly recommend his "The Demon-Haunted World" and "Billions and Billions."
Enjoy!
Well, for what it's worth, the DVD is NTSC (which I think they use in India, no?) and it's Region 0 which means it will play in any player. So contact CarlSagan.com and get a copy.
BTW, as far as books go, I'd also highly recommend his "The Demon-Haunted World" and "Billions and Billions."
Enjoy!
- #10
Phobos
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infidel said:
I'd recommend all his books (read 'em all except "Intelligent Life in the Universe").
A great follow-up to "Cosmos" is "Pale Blue Dot".
Demon-Haunted World is a must-read.
"Billions and Billions" was nice...but not his best, IMHO. I think it was something he threw together toward the end of his life as his health was failing.