The Dancing Wu LI Masters An Overview of the New Physics

Zukav, Gary

ISBN 10: 0688034020 / ISBN 13: 9780688034023

Published by William Morrow and Company, Inc., NY, 1979

About this Item

Very minor edge wear on the DJ, which; Hardcover; William Morrow and Company, Inc.; ; 1979; First Edition Large 8vo 9" - 10" tall; 352 p. Very Good is inside of a protective cover. The contents are very clean, tightly bound, like new. The fold out supplement inside and no sign of tears. ; 1979; First Edition.

Seller Inventory # 15382

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Dancing Wu LI Masters An Overview of the New Physics
• Publisher: William Morrow and Company, Inc., NY
• Publication Date: 1979
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0688034020
• ISBN 13: 9780688034023
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Dust Jacket Condition: Very Good

About this title

Synopsis

With its unique combination of depth, clarity, and humor that has enchanted millions, this beloved classic by bestselling author Gary Zukav opens the fascinating world of quantum physics to readers with no mathematical or technical background. "Wu Li" is the Chinese phrase for physics. It means "patterns of organic energy," but it also means "nonsense," "my way," "I clutch my ideas," and "enlightenment." These captivating ideas frame Zukav's evocative exploration of quantum mechanics and relativity theory. Delightfully easy to read, The Dancing Wu Li Masters illuminates the compelling powers at the core of all we know.

Review

At an Esalen Institute meeting in 1976, tai chi master Al Huang said that the Chinese word for physics is Wu Li, "patterns of organic energy." Journalist Gary Zukav and the others present developed the idea of physics as the dance of the Wu Li Masters--the teachers of physical essence. Zukav explains the concept further:

The Wu Li Master dances with his student. The Wu Li Master does not teach, but the student learns. The Wu Li Master always begins at the center, the heart of the matter.... This book deals not with knowledge, which is always past tense anyway, but with imagination, which is physics come alive, which is Wu Li.... Most people believe that physicists are explaining the world. Some physicists even believe that, but the Wu Li Masters know that they are only dancing with it.

The "new physics" of Zukav's 1979 book comprises quantum theory, particle physics, and relativity. Even as these theories age they haven't percolated all that far into the collective consciousness; they're too far removed from mundane human experience not to need introduction. The Dancing Wu Li Masters remains an engaging, accessible way to meet the most profound and mind-altering insights of 20th-century science. --Mary Ellen Curtin