Are the Demystified Series Physics Books Reliable for Serious Students?

  • Thread starter Thread starter sam_qau
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Physics Series
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The Demystified Series physics books by David McMahon are deemed credible but not suitable for serious students of physics. While "Relativity Demystified" provides useful tools for calculations in general relativity, it is marred by numerous typos and errors, which detracts from its reliability. For theoretical understanding, readers are advised to consult other sources, such as Sean Carroll's 2004 work. Overall, the series does not offer significant advantages over traditional textbooks.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of general relativity concepts
  • Familiarity with Riemann tensors and Einstein equations
  • Basic skills in mathematical calculations without computational tools
  • Knowledge of physics literature and credible sources
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Sean Carroll's 2004 book on general relativity for theoretical insights
  • Explore advanced textbooks on quantum field theory (QFT) for comprehensive understanding
  • Investigate common errors in physics textbooks to enhance critical reading skills
  • Review online resources for lists of typos and corrections in physics literature
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone evaluating the reliability of educational resources in the field of physics.

sam_qau
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
How credible are the Demystified Series physics books by David McMahon?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
They're ok, but definitely not for the serious student of physics.
 
They are credible but not so great in my opinion.
 
They are credible, but do not demystify more than other textbooks.
 
Hi

I have worked my way through "Relativity Demystified".
I think it's a good book in the sense that it gives you a lot of tools how to do calculations in general relativity. No computer, no calculator, just pencil and paper. And in doing all the examples and the quizzes you really get the grip on, how to calculate a Riemann-tensor or Einstein-equation.
Regarding theory I would seek other sources. e.g. Carrol (2004).

The book contains quite a lot of typos, and I have published an extensive list on my homepage
http://physicssusan.mono.net/9035/General Relativity - Relativity demystified"

Su L
 
Last edited by a moderator:
some of them are good, some of them contains TOO many errors and misprints to be valuable for a serious student. The QFT book has errors on almost every page...
 

Similar threads

Is "Quantum Mechanics Demystified" a good book for a beginner?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Intro Math Recommendations for Math book series for preschool onward
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
Book recommendation for techniques of evaluating Series?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Good series of books to brush up on math, physics, and computer programming?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Intro Physics Looking for an Introductory Physics Book without Flashy Presentation?
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
6K
Intro Physics Physics Introduction book
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
1K
Other How Do You Guys Keep Up with New Textbook Releases?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
What is the best self-study Quantum book?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
5K
Intro Physics What is the best conceptual high school physics book?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
705
Intro Math Hassani's books on Mathematical Physics/Methods
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K