Relatively Speaking: Relativity, Black Holes, and the Fate of the Universe

by Eric Chaisson

An introduction to Einstein's theory of relativity for nonscientists, this book takes into consideration many of the interesting possibilities that the theory suggests

Genres: Science, Nonfiction

254 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1988

Reviews

[Krzysztof Kot · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written, clear explanation of a pretty heavy concept. No heavy maths but big on diagrams and analogies. Not quite a university course but the first time I've felt I've come close to understanding what everybody's been banging on about this whole time.

Just the first half of the book covers the move from Newtonian physics to both cases of relativity, a history on Einstein the man, gravitational lensing, gravitational red-shift, time dilation and space-time.

Do be wary, it was written in '88 so has some outdated concepts like gravity waves making a brief appearance.

The last half of the book delves into theories of space time curvature and the relation to astrophysics. The understanding of black holes in '88 is covered as well as some theories on the open vs. closed universe. String theory is touched upon as well and noted as "gaining favour".

Well written and interesting even if the last sections would be better served by an updated text. Probably a good primer for a brief history of time (which I confess I still have to read).

[Ishan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Relatively Speaking is a very well written introduction to modern physics. Eric Chaisson sets the scene with a description of Newtonian physics and described the paradoxes being faced by physicists in the early 20th century. He then goes on to describe Einstein's theories. This is an easy read with vivid visuals and great analogies. I would highly recommend this book to scientists and non-scientists alike!

[Remo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Espectacular introducción a la Relatividad General de Einstein. Con varios trozos biográficos, el autor introduce la materia y no sólo la hace entretenida: logra que tome tintes épicos. Descubrir los secretos del Universo, nada menos. Como estudiante de primero de ingeniería con vocación de físico, este fue uno de los libros que me animó a cambiar de carrera. Espectacular. Impresionante.