When it comes to big science, very few things are conclusively known. From Quantum Mechanics to Natural Selection, what we have instead are theories - ideas explain why things happen the way they do. We don't know for certain these are correct - no one ever saw the Big Bang - but with them we can paint beautiful, breathtaking pictures of everything from human behaviour to what the future may hold. Profiling the key scientists behind each theory, 30-Second Theories presents each entry in a unique, eye-catching full-colour design, with thought-provoking extras and stylish illustrations. It is essential for anyone keen on expanding their mind with science's most thrilling ideas.
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About the Author
Paul Parsons is former editor of BBC Focus magazine. He has written for publications from the Telegraph to FHM. His The Science of Doctor Who (Icon) was longlisted for the 2007 Royal Society Prize. Martin Rees is Astronomer Royal, President of the Royal Society, and Professor of Cosmology and Astrophysics at Cambridge.
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14 of 15 people found the following review helpful
By Dr. Bojan Tunguz
TOP 500 REVIEWER
Format:Hardcover
As a theoretical physicist I am oftentimes at pains to explain to people what is it that I actually do. Theory is a loaded term, and it has different meaning depending on the context in which it is used. The colloquial meaning suggests little more than an elaborate opinion, oftentimes not easily refutable. However, in the minds of most scientists theories are the most refined sets of principles that have been validated through many quite rigorous scientific means, and have come to dominate whole sections of the ways that we view the world around us.
Anyone with some degree of post-secondary education is probably familiar with at least some of the theories that are covered in this book. Many others could be easily explained with a quick online search. However, sometimes it's useful to have a quick and handy reference that can help us get a more secure footing. This well designed and attractive introductory book does exactly that: it provides a brief reference for 50 theories from various fields and disciplines. These are explained in short 300 word sections, with an accompanying illustrations and several even shorter references. The topics covered include: the wave theory, universal gravitational theory, placebo effect, continental drift, psychoanalysis, behaviorism, natural selection, and many more. The illustrations are done in a mock fifties style and they convey a slight panache for self-irony. The book is printed on a high-quality glossy paper and can almost function as a coffee table book. It makes a nice little reference or can be used as a thoughtful gift.
Anyone with some degree of post-secondary education is probably familiar with at least some of the theories that are covered in this book. Many others could be easily explained with a quick online search. However, sometimes it's useful to have a quick and handy reference that can help us get a more secure footing. This well designed and attractive introductory book does exactly that: it provides a brief reference for 50 theories from various fields and disciplines. These are explained in short 300 word sections, with an accompanying illustrations and several even shorter references. The topics covered include: the wave theory, universal gravitational theory, placebo effect, continental drift, psychoanalysis, behaviorism, natural selection, and many more. The illustrations are done in a mock fifties style and they convey a slight panache for self-irony. The book is printed on a high-quality glossy paper and can almost function as a coffee table book. It makes a nice little reference or can be used as a thoughtful gift.
19 of 21 people found the following review helpful
Format:Hardcover|Amazon Verified Purchase
We're so lucky to live at a time where our knowledge of the universe is so advanced, but to the interested non-specialist with a busy life, science can sometimes seem like a mishmash of theory, fact, claim, jargon and ugly equations. However do not fear, because this book strips things down to the bare essentials of what you need to know.
Very similar in principle to the "50 Ideas You Really Need to Know" series, except this one book has a broader coverage of the whole of science, cut into 7 sections on Macrocosm, Microcosm, Evolution, Mind/Body, Earth, Universe & Knowledge and punctuated by glossaries of key words and short biogs of 7 key men (Einstein, Darwin etc).
Okay so you're not going to get a deep understanding of most of the stuff, but you'll at least be aware of where science is currently at and you'll maybe be inspired to delve further into one of the topics if it strikes an interest. Also don't be put off by the dull front cover, as inside is pure quality, glossy pages, artwork, easy on the eye, and it really does only take 30 seconds for each....old, young, expert, beginner...a must have reference on your shelf, in fact it should be in every school's library.
Very similar in principle to the "50 Ideas You Really Need to Know" series, except this one book has a broader coverage of the whole of science, cut into 7 sections on Macrocosm, Microcosm, Evolution, Mind/Body, Earth, Universe & Knowledge and punctuated by glossaries of key words and short biogs of 7 key men (Einstein, Darwin etc).
Okay so you're not going to get a deep understanding of most of the stuff, but you'll at least be aware of where science is currently at and you'll maybe be inspired to delve further into one of the topics if it strikes an interest. Also don't be put off by the dull front cover, as inside is pure quality, glossy pages, artwork, easy on the eye, and it really does only take 30 seconds for each....old, young, expert, beginner...a must have reference on your shelf, in fact it should be in every school's library.
8 of 9 people found the following review helpful
By Mr. S. C. Warburton
VINE™ VOICE
Format:Hardcover|Amazon Verified Purchase
A taster book that does what it says on the can. It may help to wet your appetite for a more detailed look elsewhere - for example, quantum science etc. It may be too lightweight for those already familiar with any particular subject - but just right for those who are new to topics - and just want a quick idea about a topic
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Most Recent Customer Reviews
4.0 out of 5 stars
Good description of each theory.
Good description of each theory. Some times the theory description is too short it does not give enough information to enable the reader to comprehend fully.
Published 1 month ago by JOJECO
5.0 out of 5 stars
Enjoyed this one
Great book to dip in and out of with references to more detailed reading. Ideal for those few spare minutes each day
Published 2 months ago by DrummersDad
3.0 out of 5 stars
Its OK
Its not what I expected and if I had picked it up in a bookshop I woudl have scanned it & then put ot back. Perhaps I shoudl do this with kindle versions? Read more
Published 2 months ago by Mr. Adrian F. Davies
2.0 out of 5 stars
Doesn't help my understanding
A very easy book to put down. Very superficial and doesn't really make clear whether it is trying to baffle one with science or help one's understanding
Published 2 months ago by Dylan
1.0 out of 5 stars
Boring Tosh
Very poorly presented explanations - I was more confused after reading them than before. Tip to the author: before you pontificate, you need to understand the subject yourself...
Published 2 months ago by Chris Taylor
4.0 out of 5 stars
Instant Science
Great for those who, like me, have only the most rudimentary scientific knowledge this a most interesting read. I recommend it to novices in the sciences.
Published 2 months ago by Petros
3.0 out of 5 stars
good reference book
I will turn to this again and again too read right through and to dip into to get enough knowledge to impress my friends
Published 2 months ago by canno
4.0 out of 5 stars
What it says on the cover.
Interesting and also educated me on some aspects. Good clear brief descriptions and understandable. Useful for discussion with my grandchildren.
Published 3 months ago by GODFREY D WORSEY
4.0 out of 5 stars
Interesting snapshot
This book does what it says on the tin by giving you a very brief explanation of some scientific theories. Read more
Published 3 months ago by Andrew HOLMES
5.0 out of 5 stars
compelling read.
although it's 30 seconds theories iI couldn't pout it down for hours, everything is in laymans terms, and technical words are defined before each section so it's good for everyone.
Published 3 months ago by Patrick Duckles
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