Light Years: An Exploration of Mankind's Enduring Fascination with Light

by Brian Clegg

Book Overview

This is the story of light and the people who were determined to unlock the secrets of one of the greatest puzzles of the Universe. Acclaimed science writer Brian Clegg recounts how civilisations from... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0749921978
• ISBN13: 9780749921972
• Release Date: January 2001
• Publisher: Piatkus Books
• Length: 310 Pages
• Weight: 1.10 lbs.

Customer Reviews

History of Light for the Layman

Written in an easy, flowing style, Mr.Clegg's book is full of interesting and apposite facts about light and the people who gave us the basis of our current understanding. A master storyteller, he does not pontificate or try to blind the reader with science, rather, he opens our eyes to the possibilities afforded by that science - describing it all in layman's terms, but definitely not patronising or 'dumbing-down'.The first chapter is a taster of the future potential of experimentation with light, outlining some tremendous possibilities. Then we are treated to an overview of the perception of light by the ancients, whose theories were taken as gospel during the Dark Ages and only began to be questioned in the Middle Ages - but even then heresy loomed large for anyone trying to usurp the accepted 'facts'.Continuing, potted biographies of the greats of science; Bacon, Davinci, Galileo, Descartes, Newton et al, give us a clearer picture of the problems that the new wave of scientists faced.Then we get into the meat of the problem - what is light made of? (which is still not fully answered). Fascinating insights into recent and modern theory and fact leaves one's mind boggling, trying to contain the concepts, speeds and distances involved.Immensely readable, I encourage anyone with even a passing interest in light, science or history to read this book - they will be rewarded by a new persective of the world.As further reading, I also recommend 'Unweaving the Rainbow' by Richard Dawkins.*****.

Engaging, full of vivid history and a peek at the future

I read this book on a flight back from the UK and it was fascinating. Well researched and with a compelling pace it takes the reader through the colorful back streets of philosophy and science as it struggles with the questions of light. In doing so the author brings together not only answers to what is light but ties it to time and life itself. A thoroughly enjoyable book for the casual student of history, science or life.

Light Years and Time Travel

This book will help you understand light. From the Ancient Egyptians to Renaissance artists to modern day, you'll be taken through the exploration of light and it's relation to space and time travel. Anybody who is interested in iconic scientists such as Bacon, Descartes and Einstein should read this fascinating narrative. The writing is accessible and will also appeal to those interested in quantum physics and mechanics.

Illuminating reading!

I couldn't disagree more with David Hurburgh's review above... I loved this book from the first page... it's a great mix of science (Yes, I now actually have an understand of what light's really about...) and history: a really great, mind-expanding read about a deeply fascinating subject!

Light fantastic!

If you've ever wondered about light - what it is, how it works -this is a great book. I love the historical approach, putting everything into context. The technical matter is wonderfully explained - it's the first time I really felt I knew what relativity was about - and some of the future light technology is awesome. Read it.