Which Popular Science Book on Quantum Mechanics is Best for the General Public?

  • Thread starter Thread starter farful
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Book General Qm
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on recommendations for popular science books on quantum mechanics suitable for the general public. Key suggestions include "QED: The Strange Theory of Light and Matter" by Richard Feynman, "In Search of Schrödinger's Cat" by John Gribbin, and works by George Gamow. Participants emphasize the importance of accessibility and minimal mathematical content, comparing desired reading levels to books by Barabasi and Dawkins. The conversation also touches on the philosophical aspects of quantum mechanics, mentioning Heisenberg's contributions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic quantum mechanics concepts
  • Familiarity with popular science literature
  • Interest in the philosophy of physics
  • Knowledge of notable physicists and their works
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "QED: The Strange Theory of Light and Matter" by Richard Feynman
  • Explore "In Search of Schrödinger's Cat" by John Gribbin
  • Read "The Physics of Time" by George Gamow
  • Investigate Heisenberg's philosophy of physics writings
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for science enthusiasts, educators, and anyone seeking to understand quantum mechanics without heavy mathematical content.

farful
Messages
55
Reaction score
1
Hi, I'm looking for a popular science book on quantum mechanics. That is, a book for the general public without heavy math and other scary stuff for us stupid people.

I'm not looking for a textbook, so don't recommend Griffiths. I want a minimum level of math (if at all). The level I want would be like the equivalent of Barabasi's book on network theory, or any of Brian Greene's book, Dawkins for biology, Mitchell (maybe Lewin is easier)on complexity, etc.

Or is there sort of like a philosophy of QM book?

Anyone have suggestions?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
https://www.amazon.com/dp/067401832X/?tag=pfamazon01-20 by Kenneth Ford and Diane Goldstein
https://www.amazon.com/dp/048624895X/?tag=pfamazon01-20 by George Gamow
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0521447712/?tag=pfamazon01-20 by George Gamow

I second the nomination of Richard Feynman's QED book. I don't think you can find two better physics writers than Feynman or Gamow. Both are unique, very clear, and quite funny. Plus, both men were part of the circle of physicists who founded quantum mechanics.

I know there is a philosophy of physics book by Heisenberg, but I don't really know anything about it.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
5K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K