The Trouble with Physics: The Rise of String Theory, the Fall of a Science, and What Comes Next“A splendid, edifying report from the front lines of theorectical physics” (San Francisco Chronicle). In this illuminating book, renowned physicist Lee Smolin argues that fundamental physics—the search for the laws of nature—is losing its way. Ambitious ideas about extra dimensions, exotic particles, multiple universes, and strings have captured the public’s imagination—and the imagination of experts. But these ideas have not been tested experimentally, and some, like string theory, seem to offer no possibility of being tested. Even still, these speculations dominate the field, attracting the best talent and much of the funding, while creating a climate in which emerging physicists are often penalized for pursuing other avenues. The situation threatens to impede the very progress of science. With clarity, passion, and authority, Smolin offers an unblinking assessment of the troubles that face modern physics, and an encouraging view of where the search for the next big idea may lead. “The best book about contemporary science written for the layman that I have ever read.” —The Times (London) |
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academic acceleration approaches atoms background background-independent believe black holes bosons branes called consistent cosmological constant dark energy dark matter describe discovered discovery duality Einstein electric electromagnetism elementary particles equations evidence exist experiment explain extra dimensions fact fermions Feyerabend field finite fundamental galaxies gauge theory geometry of space Higgs idea infinite number interact invented kind loop quantum gravity M-theory magnetic mass mathematical mensions motion moving nature neutrinos Newton’s law nuclear forces observations orbit particle physics phenomena Phys physicists Planck planets possible postdoc predictions principle problem progress properties proposed protons quan quantum mechanics quantum theory quarks question research program revolution scale scientific scientists solve spacetime special relativity speed of light standard model stars string theory supergravity superstring supersymmetry symmetry talk tell theoretical physics theorists theory of gravity theory of relativity things tion true turned unification universe wrong young