classics digests, reflections and reviews
One way that’s kind of a fun analogy to try to get some idea of what we’re doing in trying to understand nature is to imagine that the gods are playing some great game like chess. Let’s say a chess game. And you don’t know the rules of the game, but you’re allowed to look at the board at least from time to time and in a little corner, perhaps. […]
Read moreHaving already read his autobiographies “Surely You’re Joking Mr Feynman” and “What Do You Care What Other People Think“, I was convinced that I could gain valuable insights into quantum electrodynamics (QED) from Feynman, who had a unique ability to explain the most complex concepts. “What one fool can understand, another can” (even though that one fool was a Nobel Laureate). Feynman did not disappoint. He was not only a […]
Read moreThis book complements Feynman’s autobiography “Surely You’re Joking, Mr. Feynman” and sequel “What Do you Care What Other People Think” very well. It includes interviews from Feynman’s colleagues, family and friends, as well as himself, and gives the reader a more complete picture of the man and a life fully lived. Genius “Feynman’s great secret in solving the problem of quantum electrodynamics was that he developed this way to do […]
Read moreOne of the most delightful autobiographies I’ve ever read. It’s intelligent, hilarious, candid and fascinating. A colorful portrait of the curious, outrageous and brilliant character that is Richard Feynman. Almost like a combination of Sherlock Holmes and Thomas Sawyer. The thrill of puzzle-solving, the exotic adventures, the natural showoff, and great showmanship. What impressed me the most is his inexhaustible curiosity and desire to search out the wonders and beauty […]
Read moreA sequel to “Surely You’re Joking, Mr. Feynman“, with a moving account of his loving relationship with his wife, who died in a hospital near Los Alamos where Feynman was working on the Manhattan Project. It also provides an insightful, fascinating account of Feynman’s significant role in the Challenger investigation. Childlike Curiosity “I’ve been caught, so to speak — like someone who was given something wonderful when he was a […]
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