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Title: Meaning of It All: Thoughts of a Citizen Scientist (Helix Books) by Richard Phillips Feynman ISBN: 0-7382-0166-9 Publisher: Perseus Publishing Pub. Date: October, 1999 Format: Paperback Volumes: 1 List Price(USD): $15.00 |
Average Customer Rating: 3.74 (34 reviews)
Rating: 4
Summary: some random musings from one of the great 20th century minds
Comment: Sure some of these lectures could have been red-penciled as one reviewer below suggests, but that misses the point that some randomness and uncertainty are inherent properties of our universe. I love listening to Feynman think outloud and range across other fields besides physics. He points out right in the opening chapters that it's a shame that knowledge becomes so specialized that one feels unqualified to comment without being an "expert." That's why I enjoy reading F's musings so much -- he clearly is NOT an expert in religion, philosophy, etc..., but he makes so much sense and brings such wonder into the equation that you can't help admire and respect his opinions. These lectures make you think and appreciate the scientist's quest for how things work. Plus, Feynman puts his finger on the real dilemma which isn't how to censor our discoveries (like nuclear reactions) but how to put them to good use without hurting people. If more scientists held this humanitarian view, we'd be much better off. One of these days I'm going to try to tackle his physics lectures -- these are geared towards the general reader.
Rating: 5
Summary: Feynman at his best as teacher, scientist, citizen.
Comment: This is Richard Feynman for the concerned layman. These three lectures, given in 1963, are Feynman's attempt to elucidate the proper role of science in the issues of the day. The first lecture discusses the value of skepticism and uncertainty in the field of science itself. The second lecture concerns what light the scientific method might shine on religious and political thought. The third, and most interesting, lecture is an extemporaneous talk on the 'unscientific age' of the 1960s. You may be surprised to discover how little things have changed since then. If you are a Feynman fan, or if you are concerned about the proper role of science and critical thinking in society, you will love this book. Well-written, non-technical, entertaining. A brilliant scientist displays a deep and abiding concern for social issues.
Rating: 1
Summary: Bland essays which at times border on blabbering.
Comment: Feynman should stick to physics, a subject about which he actually knew a thing or two. It's clear from reading the book that Feynman did not give much thought to subjects outside of physics. Given the amount of flattering reviews of this book, I am once again reminded of the fact that people (Americans in particular) are inveterate hero worshippers. For some, everything Feynman touched is gold. I am dismayed to find that Feynman's understanding of non-physics was no deeper than that of an average college kid, yet in the book he rambles on and on without making much of a point on anything. A complete waste of time and money.
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