Looking for the best books to increase my knowledge

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on seeking book recommendations to enhance understanding of physics, particularly after reading "The Grand Design" by Stephen Hawking and Leonard Mlodinow. The user expresses interest in quantum physics and recent breakthroughs such as those at the LHC, while preferring resources with minimal mathematical complexity. Suggestions include works by authors like Lee Smolin, Michio Kaku, and Brian Greene, with specific titles like "The Fabric of the Cosmos" and "The Elegant Universe" highlighted for their accessibility and positive reviews. The user is eager to build a foundational knowledge of physics concepts and theories. Overall, the thread emphasizes the importance of accessible literature in grasping complex scientific ideas.
Jallen
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Hello,

This is my first post, I signed up especially to ask it.
I recently finished reading Steven Hawking + Leonard Mlodinow's "The Grand Design" and I found it really interesting. The bits I found most interesting were the parts on quantum physics, more specifically wheeler's delayed choice experiment and its implications. It blew my mind.

I did ok at A-Level physics (which if you don't know is a UK qualification from ages 16-18) but really that's the extent of my physics knowledge. I'm soon to graduate with a first honours in bsc computer science but I avoid maths where possible.

I really want to be able to understand the latest physics breakthroughs, the significance for example of the experiments taking place at the LHC. I want to be able to read about string theory and understand the significance.
Can anyone suggest to me a book, a series of books, or any kind of information source(s) which can take me from knowing quite a small amount to having a half decent understanding of physics in general, so I can understand the things I mentioned?

The less maths involved the better, but if it's necessary for understanding the concepts then I'm prepared to learn.

Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Look in the learning section here...
Look for popular books by Lee Smolin, Michio Kaku, Leonard Susskind, Kip Thorne, Brian Greene, Lisa Randall. Stephen Hawking...all theory and concepts, no math...

Consider Amazon used books...cheap...
 
I did some searching on Amazon for those authors and I've decided to start with Brian Greene's "The Fabric of the Cosmos: Space, Time and the Texture of Reality" - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0141011114/?tag=pfamazon01-20
and "The Elegant Universe: Superstrings, Hidden Dimensions and the Quest for the Ultimate Theory" - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/009928992X/?tag=pfamazon01-20
They've got a lot of good reviews, seem to cover a broad range of interesting topics and are inexpensive. Great!

Thanks for the author suggestions!
 
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