From the formation of the universe to the theory of matter to life on earth, Richard Morris delivers a clear and concise picture of what we know, how we know it, and what the limits to future knowledge might be. Morris begins by discussing various ideas about the ultimate destiny of the universe: whether it will continue expanding or eventually collapse. Next he addresses the search for a unified theory of matter that will encompass the four known forces in nature: gravity, electromagnetism, and the strong and weak nuclear forces. Finally, Morris looks at the origin of life. Once conditions were hospitable, life evolved on Earth almost immediately. But how? With wit and insight Morris takes the reader on a tour through some of the more profound aspects of contemporary science.
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It's sort of curious to read what was considered 'firmly established' as opposed to 'borders of science' a decade ago. Surprisingly little seems to have actually changed according to Richard Morris. It was a very non surprising review.
The most interesting part of the book is the third section (out of three) where he discusses the scientific imagination, and how scientific practice differs from the formalized structure I learned years ago. I wish this section was a little better thought out, but it was an enjoyable read nonetheless.