Big Bang

Description

We’ve all heard of the Big Bang, and yet few of us truly know what it is.

Renowned for making difficult ideas much less difficult than they might first appear, Simon Singh is our perfect guide to explaining why cosmologists believe that the Big Bang is an accurate description of the origin and evolution of the universe.

This highly readable and entertaining book tells the story of the many brilliant, often eccentric scientists who fought against the establishment idea of an eternal and unchanging cosmos. From such early Greek cosmologists as Anaximander to recent satellite measurements taken deep in space, Big Bang is a narrative full of anecdotes and personal histories. With characteristic clarity, Simon Singh tells the centuries-long story of mankind’s attempt to understand how the universe came to be, a story which itself begins some 14 billion years ago (give or take a billion years). Simon Singh shows us that it is within the capability of all of us — in his expert hands — to understand the Big Bang: the fundamental theory in all of science, and a high point — perhaps the high point — of human achievement.

“It’s hard to imagine a grander, more thrilling story…fast-paced…hugely entertaining…Big Bang is, quite literally, cosmic.” “Inimitable. . . . There’s no better account of the big bang theory.” “A clear, lively, and comprehensive view of the way science arrived at the leading theory of how everything began.”- “This book is a blast…who knew that the Big Bang could be so much fun?” “Singh is one of the best science journalists writing today…Impressive.” “An expert but friendly guide to help you decode the mysteries [of the universe] with crisp, clear running commentary.” “Singh’s unerring eye for picturesque anecdotes and his capacity for simplifying complex scientific ideas is a winning formula.” “(Singh) is a gifted expositor, ready to venture to places other science popularisers don’t even try to reach.” “Highly readable… Singh brings the colourful protagonists in his story to life.” “Singh spins tales of cryptic intrigue in every chapter.” “Entertaining and satisfying. . . . Offers a fascinating glimpse into the mostly secret competition between codemakers and codebreakers.” “Enthralling…commendably lucid…[Singh’s] book provides a timely and entertaining summary of the subject.” “Brings together…the geniuses who have secured communications, saved lives, and influenced the fate of nations. A pleasure to read.” “An absorbing tale of codemaking and codebreaking over the centuries.” “The history of mathematics comes alive even for those who dread balancing their checkbooks.” “An excellent account of one of the most dramatic and moving events of the century.” “Fascinating…Simon Singh loves storytelling and has a knack for digging up underappreciated characters.” “Singh is a gifted writer…a good storyteller…and [he] knows how to describe and explain complex and esoteric subjects.”

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