The Accidental Universe: The World You Thought You Knew (2014) - Plot & Excerpts
In a series of seven essays, Lightman briefly discusses some of the work of theoretical physicists at micro and macro scales. This is not, however, a popular science work. The current cutting edge understanding is used as a springboard for some serious philosophical issues relating to our understanding of the world around us. I was particularly taken with his discussion of the role of what might, for lack of a better term, be called spirituality in a rational world. A little book, but not a light one. This short book is a collection of essays on the cosmos and our place within it, as well as Lightman's thoughts on philosophy, spirituality, and communication. I loved the fish-eye lens view of the universe that he presents by tossing together facts from cosmology to quantum mechanics. Then Lightman wanders off to contemplate our very human perspective of the universe and is once again enlightening. He then goes on to share his views on the necessary separation of religion and science which reveal his generous, optimistic and essentially humanist view of our species. But then he turns somewhat pessimistically to the topic of technology making people increasingly remote from the immediate experience of life. He decries texting, googling, photography, social media and other technologies that make us experience life through the lens of our technologies rather than first hand.I enjoyed the book and would recommend it to others. While written by an atheist, it is not likely to offend those of moderate religious belief.
What do You think about The Accidental Universe: The World You Thought You Knew (2014)?
Great book. Looks at the Universe in several different ways - should appeal broadly.
—jerry606
Not great. No new information and a bit too philosophical for my taste.
—summern
