What Is Real?: The Unfinished Quest for the Meaning of Quantum Physics

Adam Becker

Mar 2018 · Sold by Basic Books

About this ebook

"A thorough, illuminating exploration of the most consequential controversy raging in modern science." --New York Times Book Review

An Editor's Choice, New York Times Book Review
Longlisted for PEN/E.O. Wilson Prize for Literary Science Writing
Longlisted for Goodreads Choice Award Every physicist agrees quantum mechanics is among humanity's finest scientific achievements. But ask what it means, and the result will be a brawl. For a century, most physicists have followed Niels Bohr's solipsistic and poorly reasoned Copenhagen interpretation. Indeed, questioning it has long meant professional ruin, yet some daring physicists, such as John Bell, David Bohm, and Hugh Everett, persisted in seeking the true meaning of quantum mechanics. What Is Real? is the gripping story of this battle of ideas and the courageous scientists who dared to stand up for truth. "An excellent, accessible account." --Wall Street Journal "Splendid. . . . Deeply detailed research, accompanied by charming anecdotes about the scientists." --Washington Post

Ratings and reviews

I love reading about quantum mechanics. My favorite book thus far had been "The Quantum Enigma," which is also a good read. This passed it by a mile, however. This not only covers the enigma of quantum mechanics, but provides a fascinating history of scientific debate, denial, and dithering. It was an incredible read! I couldn't put it down. Awesome book for historians, those interested in the true nature of academic debate, and those interested in learning about all of the different theories of quantum mechanics and how they stack against one another. Pure brilliance. Thank you Adam Becker!

The ultimate quest for the scientific truth.

About the author

Adam Becker is a science writer with a PhD in astrophysics. He has written for the New York Times, the BBC, NPR, Scientific American, New Scientist, and other publications. He is a visiting scholar at University of California, Berkeley's Office for History of Science and Technology. He lives in California.