Readable paper version of Feynman's Physics textbooks

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the readability and print quality of Feynman's physics textbooks, particularly focusing on different editions and their physical characteristics. Participants explore options for obtaining a version that is easier on the eyes, considering both paper quality and print clarity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Edmund expresses difficulty reading his old edition of Feynman's textbooks due to yellowed paper and low contrast, seeking recommendations for better printings.
  • Some participants suggest checking Amazon for newer editions.
  • Others mention the availability of free online resources, such as the Feynman Lectures website, which may address readability issues.
  • Edmund notes the existence of various printings, including a "Commemorative" edition and a "New Millennium" edition, questioning their paper and print quality.
  • One participant claims to have a well-preserved original edition and finds the "New Millennium" edition readable in PDF format, though they have not printed it.
  • Another participant mentions owning the Commemorative edition, which has not yellowed, and expresses interest in comparing it to earlier printings.
  • Some participants humorously suggest simply purchasing a new copy, while Edmund seeks a specific recommendation for an edition that is phototypeset on acid-free paper.
  • Edmund later shares that he found the "New Millennium Edition" to be more readable than his old editions, despite some transparency in the paper.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on which edition is definitively the best for readability, as opinions vary regarding the quality of different printings and personal preferences for paper and print characteristics.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various editions and their characteristics, but there is uncertainty regarding the specific qualities of each edition, such as paper type and print clarity. Some claims about readability are subjective and based on individual experiences.

EdmundRonald
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Hi,

In my old age I've gone back to study physics at college. I own a really old (1976) edition of Feynman's physics textbooks, but the paper has yellowed to the point where I have trouble reading them, the contrast is low even though the print quality is ok.

Is there a printing on good paper from the original plates? Is there a modern printing that is better?

I really like these books, and as supplementary material they are useful for my courses, but a pain on my eyes.

Edmund
 
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Hi DaveE,

Thanks for looking at my question. There have been a variety of printings, from the original photo plates, and then a new typeset version for the new millenium edition. I wonder whether someone who has physically viewed these knows what the paper/print quality is. Of interest here mainly the old "Commemorative" edition which is printed from the original plates but might (?) be on decent paper, the new millenium edition seems to be a pain to read due to the fonts, according to some comments.

Electronic reading is not the topic here, although of course it sufferes from a different set of readability issues and ... advantages :)

Edmund
 
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In paper I have the original edition 6th printing (1977) and it's still in good shape and well readable (except that of course there are traces of use ;-)). I have the Millenium edition as pdfs and they are also very well to read (though of course, I've not printed them out on paper). It's typeset in LaTeX but with some other than the CM fonts (I guess the main font is the LMRoman font, but there are many more fonts).
 
vanhees71 said:
In paper I have the original edition 6th printing (1977) and it's still in good shape and well readable (except that of course there are traces of use ;-)). I have the Millenium edition as pdfs and they are also very well to read (though of course, I've not printed them out on paper). It's typeset in LaTeX but with some other than the CM fonts (I guess the main font is the LMRoman font, but there are many more fonts).
I have the same printing. My paper has yellowed, I am simply looking for one printed on better paper. Incredible book!

Edmund
 
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Holy smokes! I can't believe this is still going on!

An old copy started to yellow after 50 years. Buy a new one. Maybe it will only last 50 more years. How old will you be then?
 
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  • #10
Vanadium 50 said:
Holy smokes! I can't believe this is still going on!

An old copy started to yellow after 50 years. Buy a new one. Maybe it will only last 50 more years. How old will you be then?
Thank you, maybe you could help me. I want to order a new copy this week. But which?

- First edition: Good photostypeset print, really bad paper, some now yellowed.
- New Millenium: Decent paper, less good computer typeset print.

Ideally I want an edition that is phototypeset on acid-free paper, so I'm asking if anyone has seen one. Have you?

Edmund
 
  • #11
You need to ask on Bookbinders Forum.
 
  • #12
DaveE said:
Oh, yea, plus this. Which has completely solved the paper issues. And it's free.
https://www.feynmanlectures.caltech.edu/
Indeed. I've have copies of all his lectures on DVD. They are all awesome.
 
  • #13
To put the matter to rest: I've finally had a New Millenium Edition in my hands. The paper is a bit transparent but it's ok, the print is decent. In my opinion, for my ageing eyes, it is more readable than the old editions are now, although the price seems a bit high.

Edmund
 
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  • #14
dlgoff said:
Indeed. I've have copies of all his lectures on DVD. They are all awesome.
I didn't know that there was film? !

Edmund
 
  • #15
EdmundRonald said:
I didn't know that there was film? !

Edmund
Not a film but his lectures.
I got them from the internet a long time ago. I believe from here:
https://www.feynmanlectures.caltech.edu/
edit: see post #12 and #3 above
 

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