Richard Feynman, Nobel laureate and icon, was a genius with an insatiable appetite for adventure and a remarkable talent for storytelling. This collection of short pieces and reminiscences reveals his diverse passions, from his appreciation of beauty to his college antics and the unique lessons imparted by his father. Feynman takes us behind the scenes of the Challenger investigation, vividly recounting his pivotal experiment that exposed the disaster's cause. He also shares the poignant story of meeting his beloved first wife, Arlene, and their brief, cherished time together. Infused with Feynman's characteristic curiosity and zest for life, these writings are both deeply moving and wonderfully humorous.
Richard Feynman (1918-1988) was a brilliant and charismatic theoretical physicist who revolutionized our understanding of quantum electrodynamics, earning him the Nobel Prize in 1965. Known for his exceptional clarity and engaging teaching style, Feynman possessed a rare gift for making complex ideas accessible and exciting. Beyond his scientific achievements, he was a multifaceted individual – a skilled bongo player, an avid artist, and a captivating storyteller with an insatiable curiosity and a healthy dose of skepticism. His lectures and writings continue to inspire and demystify the wonders of physics for generations.
This warm and insightful portrait captures the wisdom, humor, and boundless curiosity of Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman through intimate conversations with his friend Ralph Leighton. Beyond his groundbreaking theoretical work, Feynman was a man of adventure – an artist, safecracker, practical joker, and captivating storyteller. His life, fueled by high intelligence, unyielding curiosity, and healthy skepticism, was a series of remarkable experiences. These recorded conversations, transcribed with minimal alteration, offer a wise, funny, passionate, and utterly honest self-portrait of one of the 20th century's most brilliant and engaging minds.
Nobel laureate Richard P. Feynman unravels the revolutionary science that earned him the prize with his signature lucid and witty style. Quantum electrodynamics, or QED, is the theory explaining the intricate interactions between light and electrons, illuminating the deepest mysteries of our universe. Celebrated for its accuracy and enduring validity, QED, thanks to Feynman and his colleagues, stands as a cornerstone of modern physics. Through engaging everyday examples, Feynman delivers the definitive and accessible introduction to this profound theory.
This collection celebrates the remarkable achievements of Nobel Prize-winning scientist Richard P. Feynman, whose work profoundly reshaped our understanding of quantum electrodynamics. "The Pleasure of Finding Things Out" is a magnificent compilation of Feynman's finest short works, encompassing interviews, speeches, lectures, and articles. Offering an intimate and captivating glimpse into an extraordinary life dedicated to science, this wide-ranging treasury explores Feynman's thoughts on science in culture and includes his insightful Nobel Prize acceptance speech. It's a fascinating read for anyone intrigued by the power of ideas and the scientific mind.
Margot Lee Shetterly's 'Hidden Figures' sheds light on the remarkable true story of African American female mathematicians who played pivotal roles at NASA during the Space Race. Through the experiences of women like Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, the book highlights themes of racial and gender equality, perseverance, and the power of intellect. Shetterly intricately weaves together their struggles and triumphs, showcasing their indispensable contributions to history despite facing discrimination. This inspiring narrative not only educates readers on a lesser-known aspect of American history but also celebrates the ingenuity and resilience of these unsung heroes.
by Nikola Tesla
Nikola Tesla (1856–1943), a visionary of the electronic age, pioneered much of modern electrical and communication systems. His groundbreaking work included the alternating-current system, radio, the Tesla coil, wireless transmission, and fluorescent lighting. Despite his monumental contributions, Tesla's genius was often misunderstood, leading to others being credited for his innovations. This volume, originally a 1919 magazine series, offers Tesla's own account of his life, from his Croatian boyhood and European education to his collaboration with Edison and his subsequent revolutionary research. Written with wit, his memoir provides fascinating insights into the mind of a true scientific pioneer, covering his early life, inventions, and key discoveries like the rotating magnetic field and telautomatics.
In this business classic, Intel co-founder Andy Grove shares insights into managing “strategic inflection points”—critical moments that can make or break a company. Drawing from his experience leading Intel through seismic shifts in the tech industry, Grove emphasizes the importance of adaptability, vigilance, and courage. His core idea: constant change demands a mindset of healthy paranoia. Companies and leaders must be ready to pivot when conditions shift. Part memoir, part management manual, the book offers practical strategies for staying competitive, fostering innovation, and leading through uncertainty. It remains a must-read for entrepreneurs, executives, and strategic thinkers.
by Fred Kaplan
In 'The Wizards of Armageddon' by Fred Kaplan, readers are taken on a gripping journey through the history of nuclear strategy and the Cold War. Kaplan delves into the lives of key figures known as the 'wizards,' who shaped and influenced America's approach to nuclear warfare. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the book explores the high-stakes decisions and the terrifying potential consequences of living in a world armed with nuclear weapons. Kaplan's clear prose and detailed analysis provide readers with a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges of nuclear deterrence. A must-read for those interested in military history and political strategy.