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4.19 of 5 stars
When, in 1984 overview of many standard and some not-so-standard topics in computer science such as reversible logic gates and quantum computers. read full description

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Oct 01, 2010
DJ rated it: 4 of 5 stars
There's a reason Richard Feynman is the most famous physics lecturer of all time. No, it's not because he held his office hours in a strip club (though he did) or that he helped develop the atomic bomb (though he did) or that he openly abused drugs, attended nudist gatherings, and played the bongos (though he did). Surely these have contributed to his legend but, most importantly, RPF was a master of the analogy.

Warning: Impending Tangent on Science Education and Modeling
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Feb 05, 2011
Snootwaller rated it: 5 of 5 stars
As a computer scientist I am continually amazed at the deep understanding Feynman had of computers at every level, even (especially!) the subatomic.
Jun 08, 2010
Jonathan rated it: 5 of 5 stars
This is a great introduction to the electronic underpinnings of modern microcomputer systems.
Feb 18, 2009
Chris rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Short pieces on a range of computer science topics with a truly insightful approach.
Jan 01, 2011
Adamas rated it: 5 of 5 stars
my hero.
Dec 18, 2007
Will rated it: 3 of 5 stars
Somewhat of a mixed bag. The first half is very interesting, then kind of loses steam towards the end. It seems like some course lecture notes were somewhat quickly tossed together to make a book; this could have benefited from a more in-depth going over by Feynman to smooth out some rough edges. Overall worth reading for a unique physicist's view of computability, but don't expect it to be up to Feynman's usual standard of quality.
Sep 14, 2007
Dax rated it: 3 of 5 stars
Feynman's mind leaps across multiple branches of science to bring powerful insights into computing. I love his approach and he delves from programming into the physics of the transistor in one fell swoop - and that's all in a single page!
Jan 31, 2012
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Dec 26, 2011
Schwabenland rated it: 4 of 5 stars
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Dec 19, 2011
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Nov 21, 2011
Mike rated it: 5 of 5 stars