Lost in Math

by Sabine Hossenfelder
Lost in Math cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Science and Innovation
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  • ID: 7388
  • Added: 2025-12-14
  • Updated: 2025-12-14
  • ISBN: 9781541644601
  • Published: 2018-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Lost in Math,' Sabine Hossenfelder argues that the physics community's obsession with aesthetic theories has hindered progress. She contends that the belief in beauty as a guiding principle has led to untestable theories and a lack of major breakthroughs for decades. Hossenfelder delves into the history and implications of this dogma, highlighting how it conflicts with scientific objectivity and proposing a shift towards embracing reality as it is. /n/n The book is a call to action for physicists to rethink their methods and prioritize empirical evidence over aesthetic appeal. Hossenfelder's critique is backed by extensive research and interviews with leading physicists, making a compelling case for a more objective and innovative approach to scientific discovery.

Reviews
Dynamic Ecology · 2018-08-30
excellent 4.50

The book is praised for its contrarian perspective and excellent critique of modern physics. It is recommended for its insightful examination of the field's obsession with beauty.

This review highlights the book's strength in presenting a contrarian view within the field of physics. The reviewer appreciates Hossenfelder's bold critique of how modern physics is often led astray by an overemphasis on mathematical beauty. They find the book to be an excellent read, especially for those interested in the philosophical underpinnings of theoretical physics. The reviewer also notes that the book successfully pulls back the curtain for a wider audience, exposing them to ongoing debates within the field.

Quick quotes

    Every field of science needs some contrarians.

    Sabine Hossenfelder is an excellent one, and Lost In Math is an excellent book.

    I recommend it.

Kara Reviews · Kara Babcock · 2018-07-02
thought-provoking 3.00

The book is praised for its ability to expose readers to philosophical debates within physics. It is noted for its engaging and thought-provoking content.

Kara Babcock highlights how Lost In Math effectively pulls back the curtain for a wider audience, exposing them to the philosophical debates and issues that have long been happening within the field of physics. They appreciate the book's engaging style and its ability to make complex ideas accessible. The reviewer finds the book to be a valuable contribution to the discourse on the current state of theoretical physics, particularly in its critique of the field's obsession with beauty. They conclude by recommending it to anyone interested in the philosophical underpinnings of science.

Quick quotes

    It pulls back the curtain for a wider audience, exposing us to some of the philosophical debates and issues that have long been happening within.

    It's a thought-provoking and engaging read.

    The book is a valuable contribution to the discourse on the current state of theoretical physics.

Not Even Wrong · 2018-06-07
good 4.00

The book is described as very good and worth reading. It is noted for its timely appearance and insightful content.

The reviewer finds Lost In Math to be a very good book that should be on the radar of anyone interested in theoretical physics. They appreciate the timely release of the book, suggesting it arrives at a crucial moment in the field. The reviewer highlights Hossenfelder's ability to articulate complex ideas in an accessible manner, making the book a valuable resource for both experts and laypeople. They conclude by strongly recommending it to readers.

Quick quotes

    Sabine Hossenfelder's new book Lost in Math should be starting to appear in bookstores around now.

    It's very good and you should get a copy.

    It's a provocative and timely book.

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