In Search of Schrodinger's Cat: Quantum Physics and Reality

An enthralling and delightful introduction to the strange world of quantum theory, an essential element in understanding modern society

“A gripping account of the history of quantum mechanics and a clear description of its significance—and weirdness. Absolutely fascinating.”—Isaac Asimov

The question this book addresses is “What is reality?” The answer(s) may surprise you; you may not believe them. But you will find out how contemporary science views the world.

Quantum theory is so shocking that Einstein could not bring himself to accept it. It is so important that it provides the fundamental underpinning of all modern sciences. Without it, we’d have no nuclear power or nuclear weapons, no TV, no computers, no science of molecular biology, no understanding of DNA, no genetic engineering—at all.

In Search of Schrodinger's Cat tells the complete story of quantum mechanics, a truth stranger than any fiction. John Gribbin takes us step by step into an ever more bizarre and fascinating place, requiring only that we approach it with an open mind. He introduces the scientists who developed quantum theory. He investigates the atom, radiation, time travel, the birth of the universe, superconductors, and life itself. And in a world full of its own delights, mysteries, and surprises, he searches for Schrödinger’s Cat—a search for quantum reality—as he brings every reader to a clear understanding of the most important area of scientific study today: quantum physics.

John Gribbin, PhD, trained as an astrophysicist at the University of Cambridge before becoming a full-time science writer. His books include the highly acclaimed In Search of Schrödinger's Cat, The First Chimpanzee, In Search of the Big Bang, In the Beginning, In Search of the Edge of Time, In Search of the Double Helix, The Stuff of the Universe (with Martin Rees), Stephen Hawking: A Life in Science, and Einstein: A Life in Science (with Michael White).