The discussion revolves around preparing for Leonard Susskind's Stanford lectures on general relativity, particularly focusing on what supplemental reading or prior knowledge is necessary. Participants express concerns about their background in physics and mathematics, and seek recommendations for resources to aid their understanding.
Participants generally agree on the need for foundational knowledge in special relativity and mathematics, but there is no consensus on specific supplemental readings or the necessity of particular courses.
Participants express varying levels of background knowledge, with one identifying as a freshman finishing calculus and preparing for their first physics course. This context may influence the recommendations and discussions.
Students interested in general relativity, particularly those with limited prior exposure to the subject or related mathematical concepts.
Kidphysics said:I want to watch Susskind's Stanford lectures but don't know what kind of supplemental reading I should have. My school doesn't offer gen relativity and I know it's heavy on math. Questions are 1) Should I learn special relativity first? 2) Should I buy a book, and if so what book?
yenchin said:You should say something about your background and current level of understanding...
yenchin said:Susskind has lots of series from classical mechanics to cosmology, so you should start from the easier ones. I think Susskind has a series on Special Relativity? So certainly watch that before attempting his videos on GR.
I have not read this book but you might want to take a look at it: https://www.amazon.com/dp/9812771603/?tag=pfamazon01-20.
You might also enjoy Geroch's semi-popular (not much math) book https://www.amazon.com/dp/0226288641/?tag=pfamazon01-20. Don't underestimate it though, this book is not an easy reading and requires lots of thinking to digest.
It's also good to take a proper course in linear algebra (if it's not already a required course at your school).
Kevin_Axion said:There's a playlist on String Theory now: http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=202191442DB1B300.