Quantum: A Guide for the Perplexed

Quantum: A Guide for the Perplexed cover
Good Books rating 4.17
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Technical
  • ID: 3316
  • Added: 2025-10-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9781780225340
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2012-10-25
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Quantum mechanics is the foundation of modern science, offering a blueprint for reality that often defies intuition. From Schrodinger's cat to Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, this book delves into the weird and wonderful world of quantum physics, exploring how atoms can exist in two places at once and how this groundbreaking theory has reshaped our understanding of the universe. The journey begins at the dawn of the 20th century, witnessing the birth of quantum theory and its profound implications that have left scientists and philosophers grappling with its mysteries ever since. This book not only explains the scientific principles but also addresses the philosophical questions that arise from them. It challenges the notion that quantum physics is unknowable and invites readers to question the nature of reality. Whether you're a science enthusiast or simply curious about the strange world of quantum mechanics, this book offers an engaging and accessible exploration of one of the most fascinating areas of science.

Reviews
Reddit - QuantumPhysics · 2025-10-18
beginner-friendly 4.00

The book is recommended as a beginner-friendly option that provides a broad overview of quantum physics. The reviewer finds it accessible and informative.

In this Reddit discussion, the book is highlighted as another beginner-friendly option that provides a broad overview of quantum physics. The reviewer appreciates its accessibility and the way it simplifies complex concepts for beginners. They find it a valuable resource for those looking to understand the basics of quantum mechanics without getting overwhelmed by technical jargon. The reviewer also notes that the book is well-regarded within the quantum physics community, making it a reliable choice for anyone starting their journey into this fascinating field.


Quick quotes

    This is another beginner-friendly option that provides a broad overview of the ...

    The book was reported as the number 5 bestseller for science at Waterstone's.

    Jim undertook the General News Service for the ...

The Guardian · 2013-01-11
superb 4.50

The book is praised as a superb introduction to quantum science, highlighting its astonishing strangeness. The reviewer finds it both informative and captivating.

The Guardian's review describes this book as a superb introduction to an area of science that is so astonishingly strange it makes tales of alien abductions sound reasonable. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to make complex concepts understandable and engaging. They highlight how the book manages to captivate readers while providing a solid foundation in quantum science, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the subject. The reviewer also notes the book's ability to leave readers both enlightened and perplexed, which is a testament to its depth and complexity.


Quick quotes

    A superb introduction to an area of science 'so astonishingly strange it makes tales of alien abductions sound reasonable'.

    This guide may leave the reader enlightened and perplexed at the same time.

    Reassuringly, the pros feel the same.

Goodreads · 2003-01-01
enlightening 4.00

The book offers an entertaining and enlightening journey through the basics of subatomic physics. The reviewer found it engaging and educational.

This review highlights how the book makes complex quantum science accessible and enjoyable. The reviewer appreciates the lively and engaging approach taken by the physicist author. They found the journey through subatomic physics both entertaining and enlightening, making it a great read for those curious about the subject. The reviewer also notes the book's ability to simplify complex concepts without losing depth, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and those with some background knowledge.


Quick quotes

    In this lively look at quantum science, a physicist takes you on an entertaining and enlightening journey through the basics of subatomic physics.

    This book untangles the weirdness of the quantum world.

    Quantum mechanics underpins modern technology.