What Is Life?

Erwin Schrödinger (1887–1961) is best known as a co-recipient of the 1933 Nobel Prize in Physics for his development of a mathematical description of quantum mechanics. Today, many experts also consider him the father of bioengineering, and philosophers grant him an important role in the development of an ecological philosophy of nature. Here, four leading scientists and humanists reveal the ongoing contributions of Schrödinger's thought and unfold its controversial potential. They remind us that, in addition to being a great scientist, Schrödinger was also a great thinker whose intellectual provocations far exceed his historical impact. Their insights will be valued by biologists, philosophers, physicists―and a wide range of the scientifically curious alike.

Hans Ulrich Gumbrecht is Albert Guérard Professor of Literature at Stanford University. Robert Pogue Harrison is Rosina Pierotti Professor in Italian Literature and Chair of the Department of French and Italian at Stanford University. Michael R. Hendrickson is Director of Surgical Pathology at Stanford University Medical Center. Robert B. Laughlin is Anne T. and Robert M. Bass Professor of Physics at Stanford University and was a co-recipient of the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1998.