List of STEM Masterworks in Physics, Mechanics, Electrodynamics...

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying and compiling a list of authoritative and comprehensive textbooks in various STEM fields, particularly physics. Participants share their opinions on which books qualify as "bibles" in their respective subjects, including general physics, classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, and more. The scope includes theoretical, applied, and historical perspectives on these texts.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest "The Feynman Lectures on Physics" as a comprehensive resource for general physics.
  • For classical mechanics, "Classical Mechanics" by H. Goldstein et al. is proposed as a standard text.
  • In classical electromagnetism, J.D. Jackson's "Classical Electrodynamics" is mentioned as a key reference.
  • Participants express uncertainty about which quantum mechanics textbook should be considered a bible, with suggestions including Griffiths' "Introduction to Quantum Mechanics" and Shankar's "Principles of Quantum Mechanics." However, some argue these may not meet the criteria of being comprehensive or intellectually heavy.
  • Books like "Quantum Computation and Quantum Information" by Nielsen and Chuang and "The Quantum Theory of Fields" by Weinberg are also highlighted for their significance in quantum information and quantum field theory, respectively.
  • Several participants mention additional texts in solid state physics, medical physiology, and optics, indicating a broad interest in various subfields.
  • There is discussion about the inclusion of handbooks and other reference materials, with some participants suggesting titles like Gradshteyn and Ryzhik for integrals.
  • Some participants question the definition of "general physics" and its overlap with other subjects like electromagnetism and thermodynamics.
  • Concerns are raised about the age and respectability of certain texts, with references to how perceptions of these books may change over time.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on which books qualify as "bibles" in their respective fields, with multiple competing views and suggestions presented throughout the discussion. There is ongoing debate about the criteria for selection and the relevance of various texts.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express limitations in their expertise regarding certain fields, which may affect their recommendations. Additionally, the discussion reveals a dependence on subjective definitions of what constitutes a "bible" in each subject area.

  • #241
Florian Geyer said:
Hello

There is a new 4 volume textbook on QM Oliver Tennert, I think it deserves to get a look.
I am not sure whether or not it has translated from German yet.

Sincerely
Thanks a lot Florian!

Actually, it is currently being translated into English, but don't expect the volumes to be out before mid of 2025...

Cheers
 
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  • #242
Canonical Quantum gravity: Modern Canonical Quantum General Relativity by Thomas Thiemann
 
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  • #243
General relativity, in particular the singularity theorems: The large scale structure of space-time by S. W. Hawking and G. F. R. Ellis
 
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  • #244
FourEyedRaven said:
I've been meaning to post this bible of topos theory for ages:

"Sketches of an Elephant: A Topos Theory Compendium", by Peter T. Johnstone

https://www.amazon.com/dp/019852496X/?tag=pfamazon01-20

I should have added this crucial information. This compendium is not finished. There's a 3rd volume that was supposed to be published but, at this point, I don't know if we'll ever see it.

Another crucial information, the most complete and clearest textbook on topos theory is
"Sheaves in Geometry and Logic", by MacLane and Moerdijk
 

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