The Cambridge Guide to the Material World

by Rodney M.J. Cotterill

Using the cosmos as a backdrop, Rodney Cotterill delivers a fascinating journey of Nature's materials, from the atom to the living organism. This is a beautifully illustrated, expanded account of the highly praised Cambridge Guide to the Material World. The author seamlessly blends the physics, chemistry and biology of Nature, portraying matter with all its elegance and flaws. Although the book is divided into material types, the author connects concepts and pinpoints commonalities between the inorganic and organic domains. It challenges the reader to question our structured view of the world and whether this limits our scientific endeavour, aptly demonstrated by the new chapter devoted exclusively to the mind. Through the breadth of topics and engaging prose, this book will act as a superb introduction to material science for students and those intrigued by the material world we live in.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction

360 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1985

Reviews

[Brown Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came to this book with expectations, which is my fault. I guess I'll never learn. It seemed to be right up my alley, as the kids say. Alas, the tone is too archly Oxbridge, and Cotterril doesn't explain concepts as clearly as he thinks. I admit it's possible I am simply too dumb.

The illos are great, and the great promise of the premise remains: a comprehension of the universe entire, top to bottom.

Recommended for everyone: where I failed, you may succeed.