Science Reading List for Science Fiction Authors

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on recommended scientific literature for science fiction authors, emphasizing the importance of grounding fictional narratives in scientific reality. Key figures mentioned include Brian Greene, Michio Kaku, Leonard Susskind, and Lawrence Krauss, whose works provide insights into complex concepts such as space-time and multiple universes. Additionally, the PBS series "The Fabric of the Cosmos" is highlighted as a valuable resource for understanding modern physics. The conversation suggests that biographies of influential scientists like Darwin and Einstein can also enrich a writer's perspective on scientific disciplines.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with concepts in modern physics, particularly space-time and relativity.
  • Understanding of popular science literature and its impact on storytelling.
  • Knowledge of influential scientists and their contributions to various scientific fields.
  • Ability to analyze and interpret scientific theories and their implications in fiction.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore Brian Greene's "The Fabric of the Cosmos" video series for insights into modern physics.
  • Read "The Elegant Universe" by Brian Greene to understand string theory and its narrative potential.
  • Investigate biographies of key scientists like Charles Darwin and Albert Einstein for deeper contextual understanding.
  • Review lists of popular science books, such as "The 50 Best Science Writers of All Time," to identify influential authors.
USEFUL FOR

Science fiction authors, educators, and anyone interested in integrating scientific principles into creative writing will benefit from this discussion.

Khatti
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This question is for the scientists and academics out there. What books on the scientific disciplines do you wish Science Fiction writers would read? I can think of books written by people like Brian Epstein and Michio Kaku. Another source would be textbooks. Anyone out there have any thoughts or preferences?
 
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Not a book, but Brian Green's fabric of the cosmos video series will give you new perspectives. What is space (It isn't "nothing"), Really cool explanation of the rationale for multiple universes in one of them. Great explanation of space-time and relativity, etc etc.

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/physics/fabric-of-cosmos.html

For books, just head down the list in the section that interests you:
http://www.onlinecollege.org/2011/05/22/the-50-best-science-writers-of-all-time/

Same here:
http://oedb.org/ilibrarian/100-all-time-greatest-popular-science-books/
 
meBigGuy said:
Not a book, but Brian Green's fabric of the cosmos video series will give you new perspectives. What is space (It isn't "nothing"), Really cool explanation of the rationale for multiple universes in one of them. Great explanation of space-time and relativity, etc etc.

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/physics/fabric-of-cosmos.html

For books, just head down the list in the section that interests you:
http://www.onlinecollege.org/2011/05/22/the-50-best-science-writers-of-all-time/

Same here:
http://oedb.org/ilibrarian/100-all-time-greatest-popular-science-books/

A basic children's book on physics ( seriously).

I like the above suggestions. Names like Brian Greene, Leonard Susskind, Lawrence Krauss...popular physicists who find that reality is more amazing than fantasy. The latter two who are not concerned about correctness and will call something 'a pile of crap'.

I like to read biographies. Depends on one's interest. However reading a biography of Darwin, Von Braun, Einstein, etc. can give perspective into a discipline and how science becomes 'science'.

Susskind, Lawrence
Krauss
 

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