Labyrinth: A Search for the Hidden Meaning of Science

Peter Pesic examines the scientific pursuit of nature’s hidden meanings as a centuries-long contest between concealment and discovery. Beginning with Francis Bacon and continuing through Kepler, Newton, Einstein, and twentieth-century physics, Pesic considers why scientists have so often described nature as veiled, encrypted, or deliberately difficult to understand. The book connects scientific discovery with philosophy, theology, literature, and the changing meaning of originality. Pesic argues that the desire to penetrate nature’s secrets has been a powerful motivation for scientific inquiry, while the resistance offered by those secrets has helped shape both scientific methods and the character of the scientist. Octavo. 186 pages, with illustrations, bibliographical references, and index. Detailed Condition Very Good hardcover in a Good dust jacket. Binding is firm and square. Boards show light shelfwear. Page edges are lightly toned, and the interior appears clean and unmarked. Dust jacket shows rubbing, surface soiling, edgewear, and several small creases and chips, particularly at the head of the spine and upper corners. Rear panel has scattered spotting and handling marks. Jacket remains complete and presents well overall. No ownership or institutional markings are visible in the supplied photographs. Significance and Collector Appeal An accessible but intellectually serious history of the metaphors, spiritual assumptions, and philosophical questions underlying scientific discovery. Pesic brings together figures from several centuries to show how the idea of “nature’s secrets” influenced the formation of modern science. The book will appeal to readers interested in the history and philosophy of science, scientific creativity, religion and science, symbolism, epistemology, and the intellectual development of modern physics. Shipping and Returns Carefully packed for shipment. International buyers are welcome to request an exact shipping quote before ordering. Returns accepted in accordance with AbeBooks policies. SCI 4a. …