Reading the Mind of God: In Search of the Principle of Universality

by James S. Trefil

Eminent science writer James Trefil examines the very underpinnings of scientific thought. He recounts the story of mankind's fascinating exploration beyond the earth and the simplistic beauty of the universal principles that govern the cosmos.

Genres: Science

232 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1989

About the author

James S. Trefil (born 9/10/1938) is an American physicist (Ph.D. in Physics at Stanford University in 1966) and author of more than thirty books. Much of his published work focuses on science for the general audience. Dr. Trefil has previously served as Professor of Physics at the University of Virginia and he now teaches as Robinson Professor of Physics at George Mason University. Among Trefil's books is Are We Unique?, an argument for human uniqueness in which he questions the comparisons between human intelligence and artificial intelligence. Trefil also regularly gives presentations to judges and public officials about the intersections between science and the law.

Reviews

[WndyJW]

I couldn't finish it. There are more interesting and more accessible books on physics for the general public. Paul Davies for instance.

[Bernie4444]

In search of the principle of universality

The science may be a tad dated as copyrighted in 1989. The concept that he is trying to prove is still relevant today.

From the introduction:
There is no reason why the principles that explain why your car coasts downhill should explain why a star suddenly becomes a supernova in a distant galaxy.

There are about five drawings to help explain what is being proposed. No bibliography. A good size index.

[Brian]

Very readable book about the science that goes on around us everyday. Lots of fascinating stories about how discoveries were made - all with a good backdrop in place of the thinking and methods of the time, which just make the discoveries that much more poignant.

[Jack Coleman]

Great Scientific writing.Library book.

[James]

Trefil has an amazing talent for making scientific theory available to everybody. This book will take you from the inner workings of an atom to the realms of intergalactic space. A terrific ride.