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Your Place in the Universe: Understanding Our Big, Messy Existence
An astrophysicist presents an in-depth yet accessible tour of the universe for lay readers, while conveying the excitement of astronomy.
How is a galaxy billions of lightyears away connected to us? Is our home nothing more than a tiny speck of blue in an ocean of night? In this exciting tour of a universe far larger than we can imagine, cosmologist Paul M. Sutter emphasizes how amazing it is that we are part of such a huge, complex, and mysterious place.
Through metaphors and uncomplicated language, Sutter breathes life into the science of astrophysics, unveiling how particles, forces, and fields interplay to create the greatest of cosmic dramas. Touched with the author's characteristic breezy, conversational style--which has made him a breakout hit on venues such as The Weather Channel, the Science Channel, and his own popular Ask a Spaceman! podcast--he conveys the fun and wonder of delving deeply into the physical processes of the natural universe. He weaves together the past and future histories of our universe with grounded descriptions of essential modern-day physics as well as speculations based on the latest research in cosmology.
Topics include our place in the Milky Way galaxy; the cosmic web--a vast web-like pattern in which galaxies are arranged; the origins of our universe in the big bang; the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy; how science has dramatically changed our relationship to the cosmos; conjectures about the future of reality as we know it; and more.
For anyone who has ever stared at the starry night sky and wondered how we humans on Earth fit into the big picture, this book is an essential roadmap.
How is a galaxy billions of lightyears away connected to us? Is our home nothing more than a tiny speck of blue in an ocean of night? In this exciting tour of a universe far larger than we can imagine, cosmologist Paul M. Sutter emphasizes how amazing it is that we are part of such a huge, complex, and mysterious place.
Through metaphors and uncomplicated language, Sutter breathes life into the science of astrophysics, unveiling how particles, forces, and fields interplay to create the greatest of cosmic dramas. Touched with the author's characteristic breezy, conversational style--which has made him a breakout hit on venues such as The Weather Channel, the Science Channel, and his own popular Ask a Spaceman! podcast--he conveys the fun and wonder of delving deeply into the physical processes of the natural universe. He weaves together the past and future histories of our universe with grounded descriptions of essential modern-day physics as well as speculations based on the latest research in cosmology.
Topics include our place in the Milky Way galaxy; the cosmic web--a vast web-like pattern in which galaxies are arranged; the origins of our universe in the big bang; the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy; how science has dramatically changed our relationship to the cosmos; conjectures about the future of reality as we know it; and more.
For anyone who has ever stared at the starry night sky and wondered how we humans on Earth fit into the big picture, this book is an essential roadmap.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2018
68 people are currently reading
1161 people want to read
About the author
Paul M. Sutter
8 books27 followersPaul M. Sutter is the cosmological researcher and community outreach coordinator for the Department of Astronomy at The Ohio State University. He is also the chief scientist at the COSI Science Center (Center of Science and Industry). As a new, fresh voice in science communication and an astrophysicist, writer, speaker, producer, and on-air host of podcasts and TV programs, Sutter strives to bring science to new audiences. He is the creator of the Ask a Spaceman! podcast, a contributing editor to Space.com, and the founder of Active Galaxy Productions, a company that blends science with art in groundbreaking ways. Sutter has authored over sixty academic papers on topics ranging from the earliest moments of the Big Bang, to the emptiest places in the universe, to novel methods for detecting the first stars. He has given over 100 seminars, colloquia, and conference talks at institutions around the world.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
October 16, 2018
Not only is the Universe stranger than we think, It is stranger than we can think.
In Your Place in the Universe, Cosmologist Paul M. Sutter takes the readers on a guided tour of the universe while attempting to explain it’s many mysteries. Through humour and easy to understand analogies, Sutter tries to simplify dense concepts of astrophysics for the lay readers. He attempts to explain what we thought we knew, what we know now and what we still don’t know about our universe.
The book has 12 chapters each covering a different aspect of the universe. We start with how we evolved from the earth centric model, the origins of our universe in the Big Bang and our place in the Milky Way galaxy, Advances in physics and astrophysics & the composition of the Universe. .We soon move on to complex topics like Anti-matter, Black holes, Dark Energy, and the Cosmic Web . Finally, the author speculates on what future holds for us and our universe.
Sutter’s writing is brisk and informal and a humorous tone makes the very complex subject a bit simpler to understand, especially for those with a non-science background. Barring some portions, Sutter has avoided complex discussions on any topic, limiting it to just enough know how of the subject in hand.
Though the author tries his best to simplify the complex subject, there are some complex concepts which can’t be simplified beyond a point. So if you do not have a basic knowledge of science and physics in general, you will struggle through some of the portions. It often uses terms and ideas that many would find difficult to understand. If you don't know what things like dark energy, quantum fields, inflationary epoch mean you will find the going tough. Those who already have some familiarity with science and basic physics will probably like it the best. Also given the nature of the book, the illustrations could have been a lot better.
Overall, you may not grasp everything discussed in this book at once, but it surely expand your knowledge about the Universe. For anyone who wants to understand how the Universe works in general and for anyone interested in Cosmology and Astronomy, this book is a worthy read. 3.5/5
Many Thanks to Edelweiss and Prometheus Books for the ARC.
In Your Place in the Universe, Cosmologist Paul M. Sutter takes the readers on a guided tour of the universe while attempting to explain it’s many mysteries. Through humour and easy to understand analogies, Sutter tries to simplify dense concepts of astrophysics for the lay readers. He attempts to explain what we thought we knew, what we know now and what we still don’t know about our universe.
The book has 12 chapters each covering a different aspect of the universe. We start with how we evolved from the earth centric model, the origins of our universe in the Big Bang and our place in the Milky Way galaxy, Advances in physics and astrophysics & the composition of the Universe. .We soon move on to complex topics like Anti-matter, Black holes, Dark Energy, and the Cosmic Web . Finally, the author speculates on what future holds for us and our universe.
Sutter’s writing is brisk and informal and a humorous tone makes the very complex subject a bit simpler to understand, especially for those with a non-science background. Barring some portions, Sutter has avoided complex discussions on any topic, limiting it to just enough know how of the subject in hand.
Though the author tries his best to simplify the complex subject, there are some complex concepts which can’t be simplified beyond a point. So if you do not have a basic knowledge of science and physics in general, you will struggle through some of the portions. It often uses terms and ideas that many would find difficult to understand. If you don't know what things like dark energy, quantum fields, inflationary epoch mean you will find the going tough. Those who already have some familiarity with science and basic physics will probably like it the best. Also given the nature of the book, the illustrations could have been a lot better.
Overall, you may not grasp everything discussed in this book at once, but it surely expand your knowledge about the Universe. For anyone who wants to understand how the Universe works in general and for anyone interested in Cosmology and Astronomy, this book is a worthy read. 3.5/5
Many Thanks to Edelweiss and Prometheus Books for the ARC.
May 6, 2019
Got a bit dense and chewy at parts but still an interesting (and humorous) overview of the universe from the Big Bang to its death.
March 18, 2019
There are lots of books out there that attempt to explain life the universe and everything. This book is organized with the purpose of explaining the most massive of concepts - the working of the universe. I believe idea was to craft a book in Dr. Sutter's very sarcastic and unique voice.
I was not just talking about of his writing "Voice" but his actual voice. Dr. Sutter not only hosts his own podcast "Ask a Spaceman" but more importantly to me he is on one of my favorite podcasts "Weekly Space Hangout." I know his actual voice well enough when I woke up in the middle of the night (We often fall asleep with the radio on) and Dr. Sutter was on Coast to Coast promoting this book I recognized him right away.
I am not sure how someone who is a total novice would feel reading this book but as someone with lots of basis I enjoyed this book. The chapters are broken to various topics I know basics about. When and how the universe was formed, the basics of gravity, dark energy and more. What made this an experience for me is learning the details of who the outer space probes and telescopes are named after.
Sutter likes to talk in a conversational tone, but also uses humor throughout to keep things entertaining.My favorite chapters were the ones about the cosmic dawn and a guide to living in a expanding universe. Most of the ideas are ones I am familiar with for the various podcasts and websites I regularly check out but some of my favorite parts were the details of the history of the scientists who made these discoveries.
Fun book but note that I added it to my cosmic horror shelf on Goodreads. The vast scope of the universe is heavily documented at the end of the book. I am all for reminders that 60 miles of air separate us from a vast universe that has trillions of ways to kill us instantly.
January 29, 2019
This book is basically a general cosmology book. I didn't feel that each chapter necessarily revolved around the title, but it covers a large amount of topics and includes lots of information. There are lots of metaphors and examples to help the general reader with the more complicated topics, and Sutter does a pretty good job making you understand what he's talking about. I've never listened to his podcast, but plan to in the future. The writing was good, however his style would grate on me a little bit if I read too many chapters at once. I think this book works better if you just read one chapter at a time. I enjoyed it more that way, for what its worth.
Some of the concepts includeda are dark matter, dark energy, the cosmic web, the big bang, and black holes. The history of most of these discoveries is briefly covered as well. Worth a read.
Some of the concepts includeda are dark matter, dark energy, the cosmic web, the big bang, and black holes. The history of most of these discoveries is briefly covered as well. Worth a read.
April 24, 2019
Want to know what the universe might have looked like in the first micro seconds? Or what it may look like hundreds to trillions of years in the future? How about everything inbetween?
It's a tall task, but the author does a great job of weaving the story together. He follows a chronological timeline and explains how we know what we know as well as what we don't (which is alot).
He does get technical at times but also does a fantastic job of describing some very complicated science, especially in regards to dark matter and dark energy. They are both mysterious and he explains how we came to theorize what they are very well.
Reading a book about the universe and what we know can only fill you with wonder a thirst to learn more.
It's a tall task, but the author does a great job of weaving the story together. He follows a chronological timeline and explains how we know what we know as well as what we don't (which is alot).
He does get technical at times but also does a fantastic job of describing some very complicated science, especially in regards to dark matter and dark energy. They are both mysterious and he explains how we came to theorize what they are very well.
Reading a book about the universe and what we know can only fill you with wonder a thirst to learn more.
April 28, 2019
From what we know regarding the origins of earth and our solar system, all the way to black holes, antimatter, and the cosmic web.
Paul covers all the bases in his objective to explain our place in the universe. He possesses a unique conversational and humoristic writing style that grounds the subject matter, helping to explain things in ways people from all walks of life and interests can understand.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in all things pertaining to the universe and wants to learn more. So much fun to read!!
Paul covers all the bases in his objective to explain our place in the universe. He possesses a unique conversational and humoristic writing style that grounds the subject matter, helping to explain things in ways people from all walks of life and interests can understand.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in all things pertaining to the universe and wants to learn more. So much fun to read!!
July 17, 2021
I chose “Your Place In The Universe” for a break from my usual history/biography reading. It is a witty examination of the physics and astronomy that explain what is known about the universe from its origin, the presumed “Big Bang”, to its hypothetical disillusion. Author Paul M. Sutter is candid in differentiating between what is known, reasonable or speculative.
Coming from a non-scientific background, but with curiosity, I found this book to be edifying, but sometimes hard to wrap my mind around the concepts expounded on its pages. It filled my mind with wonder as I tried to comprehend the massive initial expansion of the universe and its immense size today. Sutter’s proposed end of the universe is different from what I expected, but I will not spoil it for you. If you have an interest in the cosmos, you will enjoy “Your Place In The Universe” even if it leaves you trapped in wonderment.
Coming from a non-scientific background, but with curiosity, I found this book to be edifying, but sometimes hard to wrap my mind around the concepts expounded on its pages. It filled my mind with wonder as I tried to comprehend the massive initial expansion of the universe and its immense size today. Sutter’s proposed end of the universe is different from what I expected, but I will not spoil it for you. If you have an interest in the cosmos, you will enjoy “Your Place In The Universe” even if it leaves you trapped in wonderment.
August 14, 2022
Did I understand everything in the book? No. Could I explain it to someone else? Also no. Do I still think it’s genius? Hell yes. The author has managed to make something so complicated a little bit more understandable, even for someone without a physics degree and does so with funny examples. The last chapter is a bit depressing, but that’s obviously not his fault but the universes.
November 17, 2020
The more I read these types of books on cosmology, the more some of the mysteries of the universe start to sink in and be better grasped (not sure they can ever be understood by we mere mortals). A great quote from the end of the book “We’re simultaneously (and paradoxically) in the middle of nowhere and at the center of it all”. You will have to read the book to know what the author is getting at.
July 11, 2021
A really fun read, though even the author's attempts at breaking down highly technical concepts into idiot bytes stil veered into mind-stretching complexity. The reader will come away with a deeper, more visceral, more tangible appreciation for the mystery and for the science of the cosmos. This book is a keeper.
May 25, 2020
Historical perspective and chronological approach to cosmology. The narrative moves at a clip, covering all major discoveries. Conversational tone and colloquial style may appeal to some and irk others. Accessible to a younger audience--grades 8 and up.
May 6, 2019
Way too chatty/verbose, but had a few interesting new explanations & observations about the early universe.
March 22, 2020
With wonder, patience, and humor, Paul Sutter leads us on a tour of our Universe, from our early understandings centuries ago, to the picture that the latest science can paint for us.
September 16, 2021
4 stars, if you like thinking about the cosmos!
December 13, 2022
I like this book. It is quite good read about space-time and astrophysics (large structures existing in our observable Universe). Book is compact and introduces particle physics ("zoo of particles) only when it is necessary.
And thank you to author for avoiding quantum physics as much as possible !
History of science (Brahe, Keppler, Newton, Galileo, Copernicus, Einstein..etc) is nicely interwoven without making this book boring.
Cosmologists have managed to learn few new things about past behaviour of the space during the last 25 years of observations. Mysteries of dark energy, dark matter and most importantly paradox of calculating the amount of vacuum enrgy, they all persist. Is this: 10 to the power of (-)30 grams per cubic meter (calculated using general physics laws) or : 10 to the power of (+) 90 grams per cubic meter ?!
This represents enormous difference that puzzles observational and theoretical cosmologists, but essentially cosmos is all about dark energy (forget about barionic matter).
Presence of the Early Dark Energy could solve the conundrum of so called 'Hubble Tension' , as we still are not very sure what Hubble Constant value is.
Reader will find many questions of 'how' being answered, but author admits that even more questions of 'why' still wait for answer and may never be solved.
At the end we read surprising suggestions about the incredible long distant future of our Universe (still the one we observe) and short summary of dilemma whether Earth is just alone planet full of life (Fermi paradox and Drake practically useless equation).
All this is written using easy and relaxing style. Recommend for all who are looking first time to understand current state of physical cosmology.
And thank you to author for avoiding quantum physics as much as possible !
History of science (Brahe, Keppler, Newton, Galileo, Copernicus, Einstein..etc) is nicely interwoven without making this book boring.
Cosmologists have managed to learn few new things about past behaviour of the space during the last 25 years of observations. Mysteries of dark energy, dark matter and most importantly paradox of calculating the amount of vacuum enrgy, they all persist. Is this: 10 to the power of (-)30 grams per cubic meter (calculated using general physics laws) or : 10 to the power of (+) 90 grams per cubic meter ?!
This represents enormous difference that puzzles observational and theoretical cosmologists, but essentially cosmos is all about dark energy (forget about barionic matter).
Presence of the Early Dark Energy could solve the conundrum of so called 'Hubble Tension' , as we still are not very sure what Hubble Constant value is.
Reader will find many questions of 'how' being answered, but author admits that even more questions of 'why' still wait for answer and may never be solved.
At the end we read surprising suggestions about the incredible long distant future of our Universe (still the one we observe) and short summary of dilemma whether Earth is just alone planet full of life (Fermi paradox and Drake practically useless equation).
All this is written using easy and relaxing style. Recommend for all who are looking first time to understand current state of physical cosmology.
January 25, 2019
Not as clear or interesting of an explanation of our place in the universe as I would have liked. The author has a podcast which does a much better job of explaining things. And I was expecting that clarity in his book.
I almost stopped reading the book several times but made it through in the end. I will go happily go back to listening to his podcast.
I almost stopped reading the book several times but made it through in the end. I will go happily go back to listening to his podcast.
May 9, 2023
Sutter writes well with a sense of humor in a serious book about complicated topics.I really enjoyed the book but you can not read it straight through like a novel.I found that I had to break it into smaller sections than the chapters and try to understand the mind boggling aspects of the topics before reading ahead. It was fun challenging my brain with some ideas that seem to defy reality.
March 16, 2024
This is a good read, but I didn’t enjoy it quite as much this author’s other book: How to Die in space. I loved that one. But, maybe it’s the difference in format? I read this one vs the other being an audiobook read by the author? He’s a superb teacher with a great sense of humor. But, I suppose hearing him explain heightened my understanding and enjoyment.
April 2, 2019
This book was a Best of the Best for the month of April, 2019, as selected by Stevo's Book Reviews on the Internet. http://forums.delphiforums.com/stevo1.... Search for me on Google for many more reviews and recommendations.
December 2, 2018
This book was voted a Best of the Best book for December, 2018. See more reviews and recommendations at http://forums.delphiforums.com/stevo1.
December 27, 2018
Well written and of great interest to others but it did not sweep me along.
February 3, 2019
Not the best book on space I've read but SPAAAACE so automatic four stars.
April 16, 2019
Took to much effort to understand. Gave up after one chapter.
September 19, 2022
براستی جایگاه انسان در این جهان پهناور کجاست؟ چرا ما ایمقدر کنجکاو هستیم که بدانیم در این کجا قرار داریم . آیا واقعا این همه کنجکاوی لازم تست؟ این کتاب مطالب قابل تاملی را در این زمینه مطرح کرده است.
https://taaghche.com/book/106739/
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews