Popular science Books

Book SynopsisInstant Engineering pulls together all the pivotal engineering theories and discoveries into one concise volume. Each page contains a discrete 'cheat sheet', which tells you the most important facts in bite-sized chunks, meaning you can become an expert in an instant. From Archimedes to Elon Musk, from screws and pulleys to the steam engine, and from the canal boat to the space rocket, every key figure, theory or term is expressed in succinct and lively text and graphics. Perfect for the knowledge hungry and time poor, this collection of graphic-led lessons makes engineering interesting and accessible. Everything you need to know – and more – is here. Table of ContentsAC vs DC • Air ships • Othmar Ammann • Andre Marie Ampere • Amps • Arch • Archimedes • Richard Arkwright • Baron William George Armstrong • Ove Arup • Charles Babbage • John Bardeen • Frank Barnwell • Sir Joseph Bazalgette • Beam • Alexander Graham Bell • Karl Benz • Tim Berners-Lee • Henry Bessemer • Bicycles • Bioengineering • Forrest Bird • Bridges • Sergei Brin • James Brindley • Walter Houser Brattain • Isambard Kingdom Brunel • Cameras • Canals • Cannon • Capacitor • Sadi Carnot • Sir John Charnley • Maxwell James Clerk • Clocks • Column • Computers • Control • Rookes Evelyn Bell Crompton • Leonardo da Vinci • Gottlieb Daimler • Dams • Charles de Coulomb • Sebastian Ziani de Ferranti • Lee De Forest • Rudolf Diesel • Thomas Edison • Gustav Eiffel • Willem Einthoven • Elasticity • Electric light • Electricity supply • Electromagnetic waves • Energy • Michael Faraday • Farm equipment – tractor, thresher, etc • Roy Fedden • Enrico Fermi • Reginald Fessenden • John Ambrose Fleming • Henry Ford • Baronet Sir John Fowler • Robert Goddard • Wilson Greatbatch • Gunpowder, guns & revolvers • Sir William Halcrow • William Harris • Heavier than air aeroplanes • Heinrich Hertz • Stanley Hooker • John Hopps • Charles Hufnagel • Information Technology • Internal combustion engine • Jet engine • Jobs Steve • James Joule • Fazlur Kahn • Kilby Jack • John Logie Baird • Robert Maillart • Guglielmo Marconi • Mechanics • Christian Menn • Gordon Moore • Samuel Morse • Elon Musk • Thomas Newcomen • Robert Noyce • Georg Simon Ohm • Ohm's Law • Nicolaus Otto • Larry Page • Sir Charles Parsons • Plough • Sir Alfred Pugsley • Pulleys • Pumps • Railway • William Macquorn Rankine • Reinforced Concrete • Resistor • Osborne Reynolds • Risk • Roads • Robots • Rockets • John Roebling • Thomas Savery • Jorg Schlaich • Ships • William Bradford Shockley • Sir Alec Skempton • Skyscraper • Slab • John Smeaton • Social media • Soil mechanics and foundations • Sound recording • Steam engine • Steel • George Stephenson • Robert Stephenson • Surveying • Sustainability • Joe Sutter • Joseph Wilson Swan • Thomas Telford • Karl von Terzaghi • Nicola Tesla • Thermodynamics • Toilets • transistors • Richard Trevithick • Truss construction • Turbine • typesetting • Valve • Michel Virlogeux • Virtual work • Alessandro Volta • Volts • Wernher Von Braun • Vulnerability • Sir Barnes Wallis • War Machines (ancient) • Waste disposal • Water power • Water supply • James Watt • Weapons (modern) • Weaving & spinning • Sir Frank Whittle • Windmills • Work • Wilbur Wright • Orville Wright • Writing • Olegierd Zienkiewicz.

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Book SynopsisStress is not in your head, it''s in your heart - this is the key to peak performance that Dr Leah Lagos, an internationally known expert in biofeedback and sport and performance psychology, wants us to know. In this book, she shares with readers for the first time the same program that she uses with top athletes, CEOs, business leaders - anyone who wants and needs to perform at their best. What makes her scientifically proven ten-week programme unlike any other is that she recognises the link between heart rhythms and stress to create specific, clinically tested breathing techniques that allow you to control your body''s physical response to stress. She pairs this training with cognitive-behavioural exercises to offer a two-tiered protocol for strengthening health and performance, enabling readers to respond more flexibly to stressful situations, let go of negative thoughts and emotions, and ultimately be more focused and confident under pressure.********************** ''Dr. Leah Lagos is an extraordinary being. I''ve never known a greater empath . . . The vast majority have described the experience as some version of life changing, and I''ve been blown away by the immense performance benefits.'' Josh Waitzkin, author of The Art of Learning and the real-life inspiration behind the film Searching for Bobby Fischer''This is a step-by-step owners manual for the human body...Her holistic and data-driven protocols fit athletes and laymen equally well. Now get into your body and breathe.'' Scott Carney, New York Times best-selling author of What Doesn''t Kill Us''If you can control your emotions and attention, you can navigate whatever happens in life with your full range of abilities. It doesn''t take years of yoga and meditation. Dr Lagos teaches you how to tap a powerful tool anyone can use in daily life.'' Adam Robinson, New York Times best-selling author of Cracking the SAT

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Book SynopsisA cutting-edge science book in the style of Fermat's Last Theorem' and Chaos' from an exciting and accessible new voice in popular science writing.Bio-inspiration is a form of engineering but not in the conventional sense. Extending beyond our established and preconceived notions, scientists, architects and engineers are looking at imitating nature by manufacturing ''wet'' materials such as spider silk or the surface of the gecko''s foot.The amazing power of the gecko''s foot has long been known it can climb a vertical glass wall and even walk upside down on the ceiling but no ideas could be harnessed from it because its mechanism could not be seen with the power of optical microscopes. Recently however the secret was solved by a team of scientists in Oregon who established that the mechanism really is dry, and that it does not involve suction, capillary action or anything else the lay person might imagine. Each foot has half a million bristles and each bristle ramifies into hundredsTrade Review‘[Forbes has] An easy style and an innocence of jargon, and he treads softly on his scientists’ dreams. Forbes prefers the term “bio-inspiration” to “biomimetics”. The aim is not slavishly to imitate nature, but to learn from it to develop our own solutions to engineering problems. And he is surely right to pounce now, before inspiration turns to perspiration. He has succeeded splendidly.’ Hugh Aldersey-Williams, Independent ‘The book is a witty blend of anecdote and analysis.’ Rita Carter, Daily Mail ‘[Forbes] provides an illuminating discussion of the evolution of visual systems and the emergence of contemporary understandings of the nature of light.’ Dr Brendan Kelly, Sunday Business Post

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Book SynopsisWinner of the 2022 Marsh Book of the Year AwardA long-awaited volume in the New Naturalist series examining the trees of Britain.Trees are immensely valuable. They give shape to our lives with wood, the material that makes our homes, our books, our belongings; they nourish us with the air we breathe and the fruits we eat; and they sustain us, with their shade and the comfort of their presence. They are also fascinating they are the biggest and oldest living organisms on the planet and are essential components of many of the landscapes of Britain. Trees have been vital in determining the ecology of our planet as well as the development of human cultures and communities, yet how much do we really understand about them?How do trees live? How do they fit into their environments? Why are they so important to ecosystems on earth, and to us? And what does the future hold for trees? Can they solve the problems of climate change by absorbing enough carbon dioxide, and would we run out of oxygeTrade Review‘Wow, what a book. Perfect or almost perfect.’ Mark Cocker ‘It was a pleasure to look through the pages and find a wide range of informative and legible photographs, diagrams and graphs, all of which scored highly in terms of conveying information and looking attractive … I recommend this book as a good read and a valuable addition to your bookshelves. It does just what New Naturalists should do and it is very clearly written.’ Mark Avery ‘It is so full of pertinent and useful information that it has taken days to get through its comprehensive, well-written and informative text. With so much emphasis now given to woods, forests and forestry, it is astonishing how little most ecologists and foresters actually know about trees as individuals – we are nearly all, I suspect, cheerfully ignorant of the biology of trees! With the publication of Peter Thomas’s excellent New Naturalist edition, however, there is no longer any excuse to remain unaware of these organisms and their complex life histories … Trees is very well illustrated, with both diagrams and photographs presented in an engaging and useful fashion … An excellent and comprehensive book, and highly recommended for all those professionally involved in trees, concerned about trees, or wishing simply to understand more about trees.’ Jonathan Spencer, British Wildlife magazine ‘Anyone with the slightest interest in trees should buy and read this book. But be warned; you will find it impossible to put down. In fact even if you think you have no interest in trees, read it anyway, and you may discover that you do.’ Ken Thompson, The Niche magazine ‘The New Naturalist Series has the stated aim “to interest the general reader in the wildlife of Britain by recapturing the inquiring spirit of the old naturalists”, and here they have produced a book of great beauty and tangible quality.’ The Linnean

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Book SynopsisA funny and beautifully written welcome to the enigmatic, weird and wonderful world of wasps' DAVE GOULSON, author of SILENT EARTHThere may be no insect with a worse reputation than the wasp, and none guarding so many undiscovered wonders.Where bees and ants have long been the darlings of the insect world, wasps are much older, cleverer and more diverse. They are the bee's evolutionary ancestors flying 100 million years earlier and today they are just as essential for the survival of our environment. A bee, ecologist Professor Seirian Sumner argues, is just a wasp that has forgotten how to hunt.For readers of Entangled Life, Other Minds and The Gospel of Eels, this is a book to upturn your expectations about one overlooked animal and the wider architecture of our natural world.With endless surprises, this book might teach you about the wasps that spend their entire lives sealed inside a fig, about stinging wasps, about parasitic wasps, about wasps that turn cockroaches into living zoTrade Review‘Sumner's tale is thrilling, warm and scholarly in equal measure, and brilliantly repairs the reputation of wasps – most beautiful and wonderful as they truly are’Adam Rutherford, author of How to Argue with a Racist ‘A book I never knew I needed that is an absolute delight to read … Finally, a cure for our irrational fear of this unfairly demonised insect … A book that draws us in to the strange beauty of what we so often run away from’Robin Ince ‘If you’ve ever wondered “why do wasps exist?” you must read this book. There is so much more to them than you ever imagined. A funny and beautifully written welcome to the enigmatic, weird and wonderful world of wasps’Dave Goulson, author of Silent Earth ‘I thought I knew about wasps – I was wrong … A tremendously good read that left me buzzing with excitement and reminded me why I became an entomologist’George McGavin ‘Sometimes the most perfect books are those that shine a light on surprising, neglected subjects. Endless Forms is just such a book. Summer writes lucidly and entertainingly about this most fascinating of creatures’Will Storr ‘You also shouldn’t miss Endless Forms … which explains why you shouldn’t, on any account, go squashing these remarkable creatures to a pulp … [A] marvellous, revelatory natural history’Caroline Sanderson, The Bookseller, Editor’s Choice ‘Contains splendidly vivid descriptions of modern techniques of entomological heredity and genomics, as well as insect-scale neuroscience … it would be a tetchy soul who did not begrudgingly admire them a bit more’Telegraph ‘Sumner’s vivid enthusiasm for wasps is contagious … with every animated description of the daily lives of a wasp family, my prejudices melt away’Guardian ‘Sumner is an exuberant guide to the world of wasps and may even persuade you not to whack the next one you find in your kitchen’Daily Mail

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Book SynopsisAt only nineteen years old Vitalik Buterinpublished a visionary paper outlining the ideas behindwhat would become Ethereum. He proposed to take whatBitcoin did for currency â to end the central control ofgovernments and corporations â and apply it to societyas a whole. Now, less than a decade later, Ethereumis the second-most-valuable cryptocurrency and hasopened the gates for the extraordinary new world ofNFT artworks, virtual real estate in the metaverse anddecentralised autonomous organisations. The essays in Proof of Stake reveal Buterin as a lively,creative thinker, relentlessly curious and adventurousin exploring the fascinating social, economic and politicalpossibilities of his invention, and will guide futuregenerations of Ethereumâs community of radicalsand builders.

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Book SynopsisThat we say we don’t want rude politicians, but we vote for them anyway? Or that rude language can sway a jury in a criminal case? Adam Grant author of Originals, Give and Take, Option B*This book was originally published under the title, I Can’t Believe You Just Said That.Trade ReviewA brilliant book -- Jon RonsonA very funny and wise book about the blatant rudeness that surrounds us. Danny Wallace on top form -- Matt HaigA meaty cry for human decency, wrapped in a deliciously hilarious hot dog bun. I plan to read it again and then force-feed it to my neighbour, my mother, and my college roommate. If you care about people and enjoy a good laugh, I politely encourage you to read this book. Immediately. -- Adam Grant, author of 'Originals'Hilarious * GQ *Danny Wallace, author, actor, and comedian, wrote the rudeness manifesto itself. * VICE.com *His [Danny Wallace’s] research on the psychology of rudeness can give us key insights as to what's going on right now and what we can do to become more empathetic * Psychology Today *A brilliant book -- Jon RonsonA very funny and wise book about the blatant rudeness that surrounds us. Danny Wallace on top form * Matt Haig *A meaty cry for human decency, wrapped in a deliciously hilarious hot dog bun. I plan to read it again and then force-feed it to my neighbour, my mother, and my college roommate. If you care about people and enjoy a good laugh, I politely encourage you to read this book. Immediately. -- Adam Grant, author of 'Originals'Hilarious * GQ *

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Book SynopsisSunday Times Science Book of the Year 2011.We are poised on the edge of discovery in particle physics (the study of the smallest objects we know of) and cosmology (the study of the largest), and when these breakthroughs come, they will revolutionise what we think we know about the universe, and the modern world.Lisa Randall guides us through the latest ideas, charting the thrilling progress we have made in understanding the universe from Galileo and Newton to Einstein and the Large Hadron Collider and the search for the Higgs boson. Yet it''s about more than just physics - Randall explains how we decide what questions to ask; how risk, beauty, creativity and truth play a role in scientific thinking; and how answering the big questions will ultimately tell us who we are and where we came from.Trade ReviewLisa Randall is hugely gifted... Full of passion and jaw-dropping facts... Fascinating -- Doug Johnstone * Independent on Sunday *An impressive study...essential reading for anyone interested in science -- Christopher Potter * Sunday Times *Dazzling ideas... Read this book today to understand the science of tomorrow -- Steven Pinker, Harvard College Professor and author of How the Mind WorksScience has a battle for hearts and minds on its hands... How good it feels to have Lisa Randall's unusual blend of top flight science, clarity, and charm on our side -- Richard Dawkins, author of The God DelusionIn this fascinating book, Lisa Randall, professor of theoretical physics at Harvard, explains the experimental research at the LHC and the theories that try to anticipate what they will find -- Manjit Kumar * Independent *

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Book SynopsisAre you optimistic or pessimistic? Glass half-full or half-empty? Do you look on the bright side or turn towards the dark? These are easy questions for most of us to answer, because our personality types are hard-wired into our brains. As pioneering psychologist and neuroscientist Elaine Fox has discovered, our outlook on life reflects our primal inclination to seek pleasure or avoid dangerinclinations that, in many people, are healthily balanced. But when our ''fear brain'' or ''pleasure brain'' is too strong, the results can be disastrous, as those of us suffering from debilitating shyness, addiction, depression, or anxiety know all too well.Luckily, anyone suffering from these afflictions has reason to hope. Stunning breakthroughs in neuroscience show that our brains are more malleable than we ever imagined. In Rainy Brain, Sunny Brain, Fox describes a range of techniquesfrom traditional cognitive behavioural therapy to innovative cognitive bias retraining exerTrade ReviewEvery day I send my kids out the door to school with this admonition, ‘you can choose to be happy.’ More often than not, they roll their eyes, but in Rainy Brain, Sunny Brain Elaine Fox (no relation) offers a scientific argument for my contention. After much research, and in comprehensive, but comprehensible detail, Professor Fox provides a mental map to the sunny side of the street. For optimists and pessimists alike, this fascinating book is a must read. * Michael J. Fox *'Every experience you have, from the most trivial to the most significant, alters the brain. Elaine Fox offers scientifically based advice about how to make the most of this, how to be in charge of changing your brain for the better. * Joseph LeDoux, author of The Emotional Brain and Synaptic Self *Drawing on a host of studies in neurobiology and genetics, as well as evolutionary and behavioral psychology, Fox explores the struggle between the parts of the brain associated with fear and pessimism and those associated with pleasure and optimism…. Fox introduces readers to many new concepts from experimental psychology and recent research on neuroplasticity and neurogenesis…. [A] welcome, if intellectually demanding, introduction to a key area of brain research. * Publishers Weekly *A psychologist looks at the influence that outlook – a tendency toward optimism or pessimism – can play in shaping the events in our lives…. An insightful addition to the self-help bookshelf. * Kirkus Reviews *Fox constructs an elegant narrative from neuroimaging results, her clever psychology experiments, and the interaction of genetics and environment. -- Steven Poole * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisSusan Greenfield is a leading neuroscientist based at the Laboratory of Pharmacology, Oxford. In 1994 she was the first woman to give the annual Royal Institution Christmas Lectures. She is the presenter for BBC2's Brain Story.

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Book SynopsisPaul Davies'' The Goldilocks Enigma: Why is the Universe Just Right for Life? gets to the heart of what makes the universe tick - and what makes our place in it so special. It''s not too hot, it''s not too cold, and its forces act together in a way that''s just right: why does the universe seem so perfectly tailor-made for life to exist? Paul Davies, one of the world''s most acclaimed science writers, shows how everything from the humble carbon atom to the speed of light and the laws of physics themselves interact. He asks: is there a theory of everything within our grasp? If there was a big bang, what happened before it? Is there on universe or many? Could we exist within an endless time loop? ''This is popular science as home to the really big questions''  Independent Books of the Year ''Beautifully judged''  Guardian ''Britain''s most eminent cosmologist ... Davies is effortle

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Book SynopsisNathan Wolfe is the Lorry I. Lokey Visiting Professor in Human Biology at Stanford University and Director of Global Viral Forecasting, a pandemic early warning system which monitors the spillover of novel infectious agents from animals into humans. Wolfe has been published in or profiled by Nature, Science, The New York Times, The New Yorker, The Economist, Forbes and many others. Wolfe was the recipient of a Fulbright fellowship in 1997 and was awarded the National Institutes of Health (NIH) International Research Scientist Development Award in 1999 and the prestigious NIH Director's Pioneer Award in 2005.Trade ReviewNathan Wolfe is saving the world from near-inevitable pandemic ... a kick-ass book -- Mary Roach, author of StiffAn excellent piece of scientific gothic, rich in descriptions of the threat we face from emerging viruses ... thought-provoking * Nature *Part autobiography, part warning ... enthralling * BBC Focus *Quietly terrifying ... It's hard not to feel a bit feverish at times while reading * Boston Globe *Wolfe has an important story to tell and as a virologist at the forefront of pandemic forecasting, he is the perfect person to tell it. He explains the science clearly and never stoops to sensationalism - the evidence of our increasing vulnerability to pandemics speaks for itself * Guardian *The world's most prominent virus hunter * New Yorker *The plague-ridden future imagined by this authoritative, measured, yet gripping book is extremely alarming * Sunday Times *A good place to start preparing for what might come * New Humanist *

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Book SynopsisA thrilling journey through the recent discoveries in astronomy that point to our cosmic significanceIn The Copernicus Complex, the renowned astrophysicist and author Caleb Scharf takes us on a cosmic adventure like no other, asserting that the age-old Copernican principle is in need of updating. When Copernicus proposed that the Earth was not the fixed point at the center of the known universe (and therefore we are not unique), he set in motion a colossal scientific juggernaut, forever changing our vision of nature. But the principle, Scharf argues, has never been entirely true-we do live at a particular time, in a particular location, under particular circumstances. By bringing together the latest discoveries in cutting-edge astronomy, Scharf shows how many aspects of our cosmic home are genuinely unique, and reveals what it means for our quest to determine whether we are alone in the universe.Trade ReviewMind-blowing stuff . . . An original and gripping look at the universe and our place in it . . . I am pleased to report that this book, which aims to show us our place in the grand scheme of things, will not make you lose your marbles. However it may, to use the parlance of a bygone era, blow your mind a bit. In one four-page period, my marginal notes went from "!" to "!!" to "!!!" . . . A mind-expanding book . . . You won't be quite the same after reading it -- Nicholas Lezard * Guardian *The Copernicus Complex delivers its argument with comparable clarity, insight and humour. There is much to enjoy along the way, including a compelling account of the extraordinary diversity of planetary systems we now know to exist * Telegraph *The Copernicus Complex addresses a perennial mystery: the cosmic significance (or perhaps the insignificance) of life on Earth. Caleb Scharf summarizes current debates on how life began and how pervasive it is, explaining how our perspective has been changed by the recent discovery that there are millions of Earth-like planets in the Milky Way. He sets his theme in a historical context, writing in an engaging and accessible style -- Sir Martin Rees, author of Just Six Numbers and From Here to InfinityA tantalising approach to the mysteries of the universe -- Peter Forbes * Independent *[A] witty, adroitly marshalled treatise on human significance -- Robin McKie * Observer *An intoxicating collection of questions answered with other questions, and startling discoveries that make creation even more mysterious . . . Books such as these remind us that we are lucky to be here at all, and even luckier to be here now * Guardian *How reasonable is it to think that we are alone in the vast expanses of space? And how significant is life on Earth on the Universal (or multiversal) scale? These are the questions that astrobiologist Caleb Scharf addresses intelligently and comprehensively in his beautifully written The Copernicus Complex * Nature *

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Book SynopsisA Sunday Times and Financial Times Book of the YearWhat happens in our brains when we wake up, savour a meal or a glass of wine, walk the dog, stare at a screen, daydream or sleep? World-renowned neuroscientist Susan Greenfield draws on her own pioneering research to illuminate the mystery of consciousness, and how our brains make us who we are. ''Offers tantalising clues to the universe inside our heads'' Rob Kingston, Sunday Times, Science Books of the Year''One of the few brain researchers making a serious effort to investigate the rich continuum of conscious thoughts and feelings that underlie every moment of our waking lives'' Clive Cookson, Financial Times''An illuminating, engrossing journey'' Nature''Her writing is clear, sharp, devoid of difficult jargon and chatty. The brain''s complexity comes across vividly'' Anil Ananthaswamy, New ScientistTrade Review[Greenfield is] often described as the foremost female scientist in Britain, but is one of the best of any gender, anywhere, at getting complicated ideas across * Independent on Sunday *

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Book Synopsis''Brilliant. You won''t find a clearer, more engaging guide to what we know (or would like to know) about the universe and how it is put together'' Bill BrysonCelebrated physicist and global bestselling author Paul Davies tells the story of the universe in thirty cosmological conundrumsIn the constellation of Eridanus there lurks a cosmic mystery. It''s as if something has taken a huge bite out of the universe, leaving a super-void. What could be the culprit? A super massive black hole? Another, bigger universe? Or an expanding vacuum bubble, destined to envelop and annihilate everything in existence?Scientists now understand the history of our universe better than the history of our own planet, but they continue to uncover startling new riddles-the hole in the universe being just one. In this electrifying book, award-winning physicist Paul Davies walks us through the puzzles and paradoxes that have preoccupied cosmologists from ancient Greece to the present day. Laying bare the audacious research that has led us to mind-bending solutions, Davies reveals how we might begin to approach the greatest outstanding enigmas of all.Trade ReviewBrilliant. You won't find a clearer, more engaging guide to what we know (or would like to know) about the universe and how it is put together. -- Bill Bryson * author of The Body: A Guide for Occupants *Paul Davies gives us a thought-provoking, fascinating, and delightful journey through some of the big questions that have perplexed and tantalized scientists throughout history. These are the questions and paradoxes that have stumped and teased history's greatest minds. What happened before the beginning? What is the meaning of the universe? Are there other universes? -- Michio KakuPaul Davies brings his customary lucidity to a survey of some of the most fascinating and puzzling aspects of our universe, simultaneously educating us about its vertiginous wonders and giving us a real sense of science's questions as it confronts and explores them and wrestles with their mystery. It is an absorbing and stimulating read, one of the best of its kind. -- A.C. Grayling * author of The Frontiers of Knowledge *Compelling ... Davies excels in succinctly addressing the cosmological conundrums that haven't received as much attention as dark matter, dark energy, what triggered the big bang and the fate of the universe * Forbes *A whistle-stop tour of the biggest mysteries that cosmologists are investigating today ... a fun way of making sure you're all caught up on where cosmology is at today * Physics World *What's Eating the Universe? is a veritable feast for curious minds. Davies, a polymath and lyrical writer, masterfully tackles all the big questions ranging from why this Universe to the meaning of life and the significance of the present moment-a whirlwind journey through ideas that have shaped our understanding of the cosmos and its constituents. -- Priyamvada Natarajan * author of Mapping the Heavens: The Radical Scientific Ideas That Reveal the Cosmos *A great introduction for readers new to physics ...Lessons in cosmology and astrophysics abound in this enthusiastic primer * Publishers Weekly *Understanding theoretical physics is a daunting task, but What's Eating the Universe?is here to guide readers through the field. Each chapter is short-less than 10 pages-but jargon-free and full of information ... Regardless of the reader's prior physics knowledge, the book provides an accessible introduction to cosmology * Physics Today *What's Eating the Universe? is Paul Davies at his very best. He brings a lifetime of experience in explaining mysteries of space and time to offer thought-provoking essays on deep questions in bite-sized, easily digestible chunks. There is no better overview of the advances made by cosmologists in recent decades. -- John Gribbin * author of Six Impossible Things: The ‘Quanta of Solace’ and the Mysteries of the Subatomic World *A delightful account of the cutting edge of modern cosmology. He is truly exceptional at explaining all of this in his inimitable style--let's say 'astropoetry' -- Simon Mitton, University of CambridgeA whistle-stop tour of the major questions in contemporary cosmology -- Philip Ball, author of Beyond Weird: Why Everything You Thought You Knew about Quantum Physics Is Different

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Book SynopsisHow does the brain work? How different is a human brain from other creatures'' brains? Is the human brain still evolving? In this fascinating book, Michael O''Shea provides a non-technical introduction to the main issues and findings in current brain research, and gives a sense of how neuroscience addresses questions about the relationship between the brain and the mind. Chapters tackle subjects such as brain processes, perception, memory, motor control and the causes of ''altered mental states''. A final section discusses possible future developments in neuroscience, touching on artificial intelligence, gene therapy, the importance of the Human Genome Project, drugs by design, and transplants. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade Review'O'Shea writes with real enthusiasm.' * The Guardian *Table of Contents1. Mind and brain: what's the problem? ; 2. Let's get physical ; 3. Sight, sound, and imagination ; 4. "Last week's potatoes!" ; 5. Perception to action ; 6. Altered states of mind ; 7. Where do we go from here?

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Book SynopsisHistories you can trust.The first part of the book tells the story of science in both East and West from antiquity to the Enlightenment: from the ancient Mediterranean world to ancient China; from the exchanges between Islamic and Christian scholars in the Middle Ages to the Chinese invention of gunpowder, paper, and the printing press; from the Scientific Revolution of sixteenth and seventeenth century Europe to the intellectual ferment of the eighteenth century.The chapters that follow focus on the increasingly specialized story of science since end of the eighteenth century, covering experimental science in the laboratory from Michael Faraday to CERN; the exploration of nature, from intrepid Victorian explorers to twentieth century primatologists; the mapping of the universe, from the discovery of Uranus to Big Bang theory; the impact of evolutionary ideas, from Lamarck, Darwin, and Wallace to DNA; and the story of theoretical physics, from James Clark Maxwell to Quantum Theory and beyond. A concluding chapter reflects on how scientists have communicated their work to a wider public, from the Great Exhibition of 1851 to the internet in the early twenty-first century.Trade ReviewA fabulous series of essays from more than a dozen science historians that show science interacting with and being influenced by culture and society. Morus and company succeed in showing science as a product of human culture, not a phenomenon apart from it. * Publishers Weekly *This book successfully shows for a general audience that science is culture and that "science"-singular-has never existed...chapeau for a beautiful andnuanced comprehensive history of science. * Floor Haalboom, Erasmus M C Rotterdam andUtrecht Univ, Isis Journal of the History of Science Society *This book is both conventional and not, sweeping yet focused, and really fun to read as both a reference source and as a piece of world history. * New Books in Science podcast *Table of Contents1: James Evans: Science in the Ancient Mediterranean World 2: Donald Harper: Science in Ancient China 3: Sonja Brentjes: Medieval Science in the West and Middle East 4: Dagmar Schaefer: Science in the Medieval East 5: John Henry: The Scientific Revolution 6: Jan Golinski: Enlightenment Science 7: Iwan Rhys Morus: Experimental Cultures 8: Amanda Rees: Exploring Nature 9: Robert Smith: Mapping the Universe 10: Peter Bowler: The Meaning of Life 11: Matthew Stanley: Theoretical Visions 12: Charlotte Sleigh: Communicating Nature

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Book SynopsisThe book explores the surprising connections between the study of the universe on the largest scales, and the physics of the infinitely small, and investigates the extraordinary potential of multi-messenger astronomy to provide answers to the key questions of fundamental physics and thus revolutionise our understanding of the universe.Trade ReviewThe author lets his enthusiasm for the subject and its research enterprises shine through, which is an excellent feature * Dave Pike, The Observatory *Particularly timely, and of great appeal to a wide readership from the professional scientist to the intelligent layperson * Professor Sir James Hough, University of Glasgow *A timely, engrossing, witty yet scholarly work, this book is essential reading for anybody interested in the cutting edge of cosmology. Prof. Bertone is an expert guide with the rare gift of presenting complex ideas in an accessible, original and compelling way. An armchair journey to the limits of the known universe and beyond! * Professor Roberto Trotta, Imperial College London and International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA) *This is an excellent book that will convey to the lay public the excitement of recent discoveries that are bringing us novel and even revolutionary insights about the nature of the cosmos we inhabit * Professor Abhay Ashtekar, Director of the Institute for Gravitational Physics and Geometry at Pennsylvania State University *A clear and readable account of humanity's fascination with the cosmos, from ancient times to the Nobel prizewinning observation of gravitational waves. Explains the triumphs and crises of current theories of the origin and structure of the universe in simple, accessible terms. Enjoyable and informative * Professor Ian Stewart FRS, author of Calculating the Cosmos *An intriguing blend of cosmic mysteries and observational probes, with a delightfully accessible approach * Joseph Silk, Homewood Professor of Physics and Astronomy, Johns Hopkins University *A lively introduction to the newly emerging field of multi-messenger astronomy, outlining the certainties and possibilities as well as the intriguing open questions - a must-read for young minds who want to venture into this new and exciting journey of cosmic exploration * Priyamvada Natarajan, astrophysicist and author of Mapping the Heavens: The Radical Scientific Ideas That Reveal the Cosmos *With equal parts flair and sophistication, Bertone takes us on an incredible tour of our universe's greatest mysteries. The language is at times so evocative you might forget you're actually learning something! * Dan Hooper, Head of the Theoretical Astrophysics Group, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory; Professor of Astronomy and Astrophysics, University of Chicago *In this charming book, Gianfranco Bertone considers puts cutting-edge ideas -- black holes, dark energy, inflationary cosmology -- into their proper context as part of humanity's ongoing quest to understand the universe. Wonderfully written, Tale of Two Infinities manages to illuminate cosmic vistas while never losing sight of the human perspective * Sean Carroll, author of Something Deeply Hidden: Quantum Worlds and the Emergence of Spacetime *The detection of gravitational waves in 2015 was just the beginning. The insatiably curious seeking context and some sense of the promise of these new starry messengers should look no further. Gianfranco Bertone is a sure guide, and A Tale of Two Infinities is an engaging tour * Jim Baggott, author of Quantum Reality *The recent developments in Cosmology have shown that the infinitely big (the Universe) and the infinitely small (fundamental forces and particles, structure of spacetime at the microscopic, subatomic level) have never been so close to each other. Physicists studying both "infinities" ask the same questions and look for the same answers. The reader will feel comfortably cradled between these two infinities. The text manages to present the latest, on-going "revolution" brought about by the recent direct detection of gravitational waves in a simple way yet respecting and reflecting the deep meaning of it. Enjoy! * Licia Verde, ICREA professor, Instituto de Ciencias del Cosmos (ICC), University of Barcelona *Table of ContentsThe architecture of the cosmos 9 Spheres of heaven Dark foundations Cosmic inferno Stories of a certain Gravity Queen of the cosmos The order of heaven The most beautiful theory The new messengers Gravitational waves Einstein's last gift Ghost Particles Black Holes Phenomenology of the absurd Quantum effects Upcoming waves Dark Matter Halos, streams, and lenses New Physics New portals Dark Energy Possible explanations Quantum origins The future Quantum genesis In the beginning Inflation Primordial waves

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Book SynopsisMicroscopy is a dynamic area of science, incorporating both basic classroom microscopes and sophisticated research style instruments that can be driven by light, electrons, or X-rays. The rate of advance in the area over the last 50 years has led to a number of technological advances. In this Very Short Introduction Terence Allen, an established expert on microscope techniques, describes the scientific principles behind the main forms of microscopy, and the exciting new developments in the field. Focusing on the main underlying principles, and introducing the power of what is achievable today using microscopes, Allen demonstrates how microscopy impinges on almost every aspect of our daily lives; from medical diagnosis to quality control in manufacture. Beginning with a brief history of the early stages of microscopy development, Allen then concludes with a comprehensive account of the diverse spectrum of microscopy available today. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewThe author has succeeded, in his turn, in fulfilling the requirements and goals behind the idea of writing a very short introduction about microscopy. Every chapter in his book is stimulating to anyone curious about microscopy. I invite you to read Microscopy: A very short Introduction by Terence Allen. * Ahmed A. Al-Tabbakh, Contemporary Physics *Table of Contents1. Microscopy and the discovery of a new world ; 2. A spectrum of microscopies ; 3. Light microscopy- from Abbe to superresolution ; 4. Identifying what we see- from FISH to quantum dots ; 5. Electron microscopy-The dawn of atomic resolution ; 6. The Electron microscopy of surfaces- scanning electron microscopy ; 7. Microscopy and nanotechnology- magnification by other routes ; 8. The impact of microscopy ; Further reading ; Index

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Book SynopsisHumans are rather weak when compared with many other animals. We are not particular fast and have no natural weapons. Yet Homo sapiens currently number nearly 7.5 billion and are set to rise to nearly 10 billion by the middle of this century. We have influenced almost every part of the Earth system and as a consequence are changing the global environmental and evolutionary trajectory of the Earth. So how did we become the worlds apex predator and take over the planet? Fundamental to our success is our intelligence, not only individually but more importantly collectively. But why did evolution favour the brainy ape? Given the calorific cost of running our large brains, not to mention the difficulties posed for childbirth, this bizarre adaptation must have given our ancestors a considerable advantage. In this book Mark Maslin brings together the latest insights from hominin fossils and combines them with evidence of the changing landscape of the East African Rift Valley to show how all tTrade ReviewThis book offers far more than a palaeoanthropological cocktail with a twist ... In synthesising the most recent research in palaeoanthropology and giving the ecology of our ancestors a climatological twist, Maslin has produced a book that is fascinating, humbling and informative. * Adrian Barnett, New Scientist *Impressively in-depth and well-explained mix of encyclopaedic information... There is an amazing amount of information packed into this surprisingly slim book. * Chris Fitch, Geographical *Palaeoclimatologist Mark Maslin delves into deep time to trace humanity's rise to geological hegemony. Examining early hominin finds in East Africa, he spotlights three stages (bipedalism in Australophithecus, a jump in brain size in Homo erectus and Homo sapiens' arrival some 195,000 years ago) and the roles of climate change, celestial mechanics and plate tectonics in their emergence. Ultimately, he theorizes that 'climate pulses' in the Rift Valley, in which hyper-arid conditions alternated with the formation of vast lakes, helped to drive the evolution of the big hominin brain. * Nature *Anyone who reads The Cradle of Humanity will certainly be enlightened about this awe-inspiring journey. * Andrew Robinson, Current World Archaeology *Understanding the emergence of our species from the unique landscapes of East Africa is one of the great scientific challenges. Mark Maslin takes us on an exhilarating intellectual journey, encompassing geology, astronomy, climate science and evolutionary biology, to argue that the unique landscape and ever-changing climate of the East African Rift Valley were instrumental in catalysing the emergence of a civilisation on our planet. I'm left with a dizzying feeling of our good fortune to be here at all, and a powerful sense of our responsibility, as Maslin notes, to earn our species name: "Wise"." * Professor Brian Cox *As we confront rapid, major changes in the earth's climate today, it is imperative we understand how past climate change made us who we are. This fast-paced book vividly tells the story of how and why shifting environments have been driving human evolution ever since our earliest beginnings in Africa, and why those changes matter. * Daniel E Lieberman, Harvard University, author of Story of the Human Body: Evolution, Health and Disease *An interesting and novel take on the subject ... a superb and highly recommended book that convincingly argues how the happenstance conditions in East Africa shaped us and our forebears. * Leon Vlieger, NHBS *A powerful, gripping account of how the dynamic earth shaped human evolution... With impressive ease, Maslin packs a tremendous amount of knowledge into a flowing narrative, making the point that special conditions for a number of species of tropical apes on the African continent eventually turned out to be luck... A tour de force through Earth's history and a timely reminder of just how lucky we are to be here at all. * Peter C. Kjærgaard, Director and Professor, Natural History Museum of Denmark *In this tale of mountains, monsoons, and meteorites, climate and ocean currents, Maslin masterfully puts human evolution into context, and shows how the earth and its environments have shaped us. * Professor Alice Roberts, anthropologist, author, and broadcaster *Table of Contents1: In the Beginning 2: Early Human Evolution 3: Tectonic and Climate 4: Cradle of Humanity 5: Global Climate Change 6: Celestial Mechanics 7: African Climate Pulses 8: The Social Brain 9: Future of Humanity 10: The story so far Further Reading

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Book SynopsisHumans are rather weak when compared with many other animals. We are not particularly fast and have no natural weapons. Yet Homo sapiens currently number nearly 7.5 billion and are set to rise to nearly 10 billion by the middle of this century. We have influenced almost every part of the Earth system and as a consequence are changing the global environmental and evolutionary trajectory of the Earth. So how did we become the worlds apex predator and take over the planet? Fundamental to our success is our intelligence, not only individually but more importantly collectively. But why did evolution favour the brainy ape? Given the calorific cost of running our large brains, not to mention the difficulties posed for childbirth, this bizarre adaptation must have given our ancestors a considerable advantage. In this book Mark Maslin brings together the latest insights from hominin fossils and combines them with evidence of the changing landscape of the East African Rift Valley to show how all these factors led to selection pressures that favoured our ultrasocial brains. Astronomy, geology, climate, and landscape all had a part to play in making East Africa the cradle of humanity and allowing us to dominate the planet.Trade ReviewThis book offers far more than a palaeoanthropological cocktail with a twist ... In synthesising the most recent research in palaeoanthropology and giving the ecology of our ancestors a climatological twist, Maslin has produced a book that is fascinating, humbling and informative. * Adrian Barnett, New Scientist *Impressively in-depth and well-explained mix of encyclopaedic information... There is an amazing amount of information packed into this surprisingly slim book. * Chris Fitch, Geographical *Palaeoclimatologist Mark Maslin delves into deep time to trace humanity's rise to geological hegemony. Examining early hominin finds in East Africa, he spotlights three stages (bipedalism in Australophithecus, a jump in brain size in Homo erectus and Homo sapiens' arrival some 195,000 years ago) and the roles of climate change, celestial mechanics and plate tectonics in their emergence. Ultimately, he theorizes that 'climate pulses' in the Rift Valley, in which hyper-arid conditions alternated with the formation of vast lakes, helped to drive the evolution of the big hominin brain. * Nature *Anyone who reads The Cradle of Humanity will certainly be enlightened about this awe-inspiring journey. * Andrew Robinson, Current World Archaeology *Understanding the emergence of our species from the unique landscapes of East Africa is one of the great scientific challenges. Mark Maslin takes us on an exhilarating intellectual journey, encompassing geology, astronomy, climate science and evolutionary biology, to argue that the unique landscape and ever-changing climate of the East African Rift Valley were instrumental in catalysing the emergence of a civilisation on our planet. I'm left with a dizzying feeling of our good fortune to be here at all, and a powerful sense of our responsibility, as Maslin notes, to earn our species name: "Wise"." * Professor Brian Cox *As we confront rapid, major changes in the earth's climate today, it is imperative we understand how past climate change made us who we are. This fast-paced book vividly tells the story of how and why shifting environments have been driving human evolution ever since our earliest beginnings in Africa, and why those changes matter. * Daniel E Lieberman, Harvard University, author of Story of the Human Body: Evolution, Health and Disease *An interesting and novel take on the subject ... a superb and highly recommended book that convincingly argues how the happenstance conditions in East Africa shaped us and our forebears. * Leon Vlieger, NHBS *A powerful, gripping account of how the dynamic earth shaped human evolution... With impressive ease, Maslin packs a tremendous amount of knowledge into a flowing narrative, making the point that special conditions for a number of species of tropical apes on the African continent eventually turned out to be luck... A tour de force through Earth's history and a timely reminder of just how lucky we are to be here at all. * Peter C. Kjærgaard, Director and Professor, Natural History Museum of Denmark *In this tale of mountains, monsoons, and meteorites, climate and ocean currents, Maslin masterfully puts human evolution into context, and shows how the earth and its environments have shaped us. * Professor Alice Roberts, anthropologist, author, and broadcaster *Table of Contents1: Introduction2: Early Human Evolution3: Tectonics and Climate4: Cradle of Humanity5: Global Climate Change6: Celestial Mechanics7: African Climate Pulses8: The Social Brain9: The Future of HumanityFurther ReadingIndex

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Book SynopsisHow animals behave is crucial to their survival and reproduction. The application of new molecular tools such as DNA fingerprinting and genomics is causing a revolution in the study of animal behaviour, while developments in computing and image analysis allow us to investigate behaviour in ways never previously possible. By combining these with the traditional methods of observation and experiments, we are now learning more about animal behaviour than ever before.In this Very Short Introduction Tristram D. Wyatt discusses how animal behaviour has evolved, how behaviours develop in each individual (considering the interplay of genes, epigenetics, and experience), how we can understand animal societies, and how we can explain collective behaviour such as swirling flocks of starlings. Using lab and field studies from across the whole animal kingdom, he looks at mammals, butterflies, honeybees, fish, and birds, analysing what drives behaviour, and exploring instinct, learning, and culture. Looking more widely at behavioural ecology, he also considers some aspects of human behaviour.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewThis slim volume ... is packed full of facts, photographs, diagrams, and helpful graphs. Wyatt's writing is clear and concise, and the content is comprehensively referenced ... This is a fine book that will undoubtedly entertain and educate a broad readership. I highly recommend this book to anyone with even a marginal interest in animal behaviour. This work will be of interest to students of biology, researchers and non-specialists alike. * Billy Mills, New Nature *concise, informative and insightful introduction to the fascinating world of animal behaviour * Mark Greener, Fortean Times *read Wyatt's compelling introduction before you watch the next nature documentary. Itll deepen and widen your understanding and appreciation of these beautiful stories. If you're sitting comfortably, Wyatt's book is a great place to begin. * Mark Greener, Fortean Times *written in a very clear and engaging way, which should certainly stimulate general readers to explore animal behaviour in some depth. * Mark Briffa, Animal Behaviour *Bird watchers should take note of this book. Amateur entomologists should take note of it as well. Quite simply, if you spend any time at all observing, contemplating, or taking any notice whatsoever of the activities of animals, animal behavior is a subject about which you should have at least basic understanding... And as with so any subjects, a Very Short Introduction is a uperb place to begin. * The Well-read Naturalist *Table of ContentsREFERENCES; FURTHER READING; INDEX

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Book SynopsisWhen humanity first glimpsed planet Earth from space, the unity of the system that supports humankind entered the popular consciousness. The concept of the Earth''s atmosphere, biosphere, oceans, soil, and rocks operating as a closely interacting system has rapidly gained ground in science. This new field, involving geographers, geologists, biologists, oceanographers, and atmospheric physicists, is known as Earth System Science. In this Very Short Introduction, Tim Lenton considers how a world in which humans could evolve was created; how, as a species, we are now reshaping that world; and what a sustainable future for humanity within the Earth System might look like. Drawing on elements of geology, biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, Lenton asks whether Earth System Science can help guide us onto a sustainable course before we alter the Earth system to the point where we destroy ourselves and our current civilisation.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of ContentsREFERENCES; INDEX

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Book SynopsisIn humans, the perception of odours adds a fourth dimension to life, from the scent of flowers, the aroma of foods, and all the subtle smells in the environment. But how many types of odours can we distinguish? Why do we like the food we like? Which are the most powerful odorants, and how well does the human sense of smell perform compared with that of a dog or a butterfly? The sense of smell is highly complex, and such complexity discouraged scientists for a long time, leaving the world of smell in an atmosphere of mystery. Only recently, thanks to the new tools furnished by molecular biology and neuroscience, are we beginning to answer these questions, uncovering the hidden secrets of our sense of smell, and decoding the language used by most animals to communicate. In this book, Paolo Pelosi, one of the leading figures in the development of the science of olfaction, recounts how the chemical alphabet behind smell has been pieced together over the past three decades. Drawing on anecdTrade ReviewLeaving no stone unturned, Pelosi provides an overview as broad as it is deep, covering the history of the science of olfaction and also how the sense of smell works in diverse organisms from worms to insects to rodents to birds to humans. [...] The author does an excellent job of showcasing how our knowledge of the sense of smell has been gained through research across vastly different scientific disciplines, from chemistry to molecular biology and genetics to neuroscience and ecology. * William B. Walker III, The Quarterly Review of Biology *This is fascinating science and one that will intrigue different levels of readersgeneral, scientists, or practitioners. The language of the book is intended for the general reader; Pelosi effectively communicates the science to those with minimal background in chemistry or biology, even when the subject includes a few chemical names or drawings of molecules. * P. W. Baures, CHOICE *a fascinating exploration at the interface between science and a particular form of qualia. * Network Review *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION; PART ONE - SMELLS AND MOLECULES; PART TWO - MESSENGERS OF SEX AND DANGER; PART THREE - PROTEINS AND SMELLS; PART FOUR - AT THE EDGE OF THE IMAGINATION; CONCLUSION; REFERENCES; INDEX

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Book SynopsisAn isotope is a variant form of a chemical element, containing a different number of neutrons in its nucleus. Most elements exist as several isotopes. Many are stable while others are radioactive, and some may only exist fleetingly before decaying into other elements.In this Very Short Introduction, Rob Ellam explains how isotopes have proved enormously important across all the sciences and in archaeology. Radioactive isotopes may be familiar from their use in nuclear weapons, nuclear power, and in medicine, as well as in carbon dating. They have been central to establishing the age of the Earth and the origins of the solar system. Combining previous and new research, Ellam provides an overview of the nature of stable and radioactive isotopes, and considers their wide range of modern applications. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of ContentsPREFACE: AT HOME WITH THE BEILBYS; EPILOGUE; FURTHER READING; INDEX

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Book SynopsisThis is a book about discovery and disaster, exploitation and invention, warfare and science - and the relationship between human beings and the chemical elements that make up our planet. Lars Ohrstrom introduces us to a variety of elements from S to Pb through tales of ordinary and extraordinary people from around the globe. We meet African dictators controlling vital supplies of uranium; eighteenth-century explorers searching out sources of precious metals; industrial spies stealing the secrets of steel-making. We find out why the Hindenburg airship was tragically filled with hydrogen, not helium; why nail-varnish remover played a key part in World War I; and the real story behind the legend of tin buttons and the downfall of Napoleon. In each chapter, we find out about the distinctive properties of each element and the concepts and principles that have enabled scientists to put it to practical use. These are the fascinating (and sometimes terrifying) stories of chemistry in action.Table of ContentsPREAMBLE: THE PERIODIC TABLE AND THE DA VINCI CODE; ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS; BIBLIOGRAPHY; NOTES

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Book SynopsisYeast is humankind's favourite microbe, our partner in brewing, baking, and winemaking. Nicholas P. Money tells the story of this 10,000-year-long marriage, looking at how yeast served as a major factor in the development of civilization, celebrating its importance, and considering its future roles in molecular biology and genetic engineering.Trade ReviewA highly entertaining read ... a fascinating and lucid historical study, rich with biological intrigue. * Timothy James, Current Biology *The Rise of Yeast: How the sugar fungus shaped civilisation is an amazing story, about an amazing people-non-person relationship (and by an amazing writer): Surely, Moneys The Rise of Yeast is destined to be a classic and a thoroughly deserving award-winner! * Nigel Chaffey, Botany One, News and Views on Plant Biology and Ecology *The Rise of Yeast is a neat little book that elegantly covers a lot of ground. * Leon Vlieger, Inquisitive Biologist *Nicholas Money's effervescent tour is packed with delights, such as illustrations by Charles Tulasne, the Audubon of fungi, or the revelation that yeasts and humans share a common ancestor (and hundreds of genes). * Barabra Kiser, Nature *An enjoyable and readable account. * Brewer & Distiller International *Yeast rises our bread, ferments our beer, wine, and spirits, perfumes our fruit, nourishes our bodies, makes us bold in love, foments chaos, powers our cars, and unlocks the soul. We humans tend to think that we rule the earth, but the evidence on our behalf is scant. This fascinating book unlocks the mysteries of our world's true masters, which were here before we walked, will be here when we're gone, and, in the meantime, help make our time on the planet a lot more fun and infinitely more delicious. * Garrett Oliver, Brewmaster of the Brooklyn Brewery, Editor-in-Chief, The Oxford Companion to Beer *Table of ContentsNOTES; BIBLIOGRAPHY; INDEX

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Book SynopsisInfinity is an intriguing topic, with connections to religion, philosophy, metaphysics, logic, and physics as well as mathematics. Its history goes back to ancient times, with especially important contributions from Euclid, Aristotle, Eudoxus, and Archimedes. The infinitely large (infinite) is intimately related to the infinitely small (infinitesimal). Cosmologists consider sweeping questions about whether space and time are infinite. Philosophers and mathematicians ranging from Zeno to Russell have posed numerous paradoxes about infinity and infinitesimals. Many vital areas of mathematics rest upon some version of infinity. The most obvious, and the first context in which major new techniques depended on formulating infinite processes, is calculus. But there are many others, for example Fourier analysis and fractals.In this Very Short Introduction, Ian Stewart discusses infinity in mathematics while also drawing in the various other aspects of infinity and explaining some of the major problems and insights arising from this concept. He argues that working with infinity is not just an abstract, intellectual exercise but that it is instead a concept with important practical everyday applications, and considers how mathematicians use infinity and infinitesimals to answer questions or supply techniques that do not appear to involve the infinite.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewThis particular volume does exactly what it says on the tin, providing just enough background on various aspects of infinity to pique the readers interest. It is written with the same clarity and attention to detail as Professor Stewarts other books. * David Hopkins, Mathematical Gazette *Stewart has turned what must have seemed like a daunting project into an entertaining, illuminating, and digestible read... the book has something for everyone. * Marianne Freiberger, Plus *Even the experienced reader may have more occasion to learn something new. Some of these non-essential but nevertheless flashes of a that's-interesting-I-didn't-know-that experience will make it worthwhile reading. * Adhemar Bultheel, European Mathematical Society *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION; REFERENCES; FURTHER READING; INDEX

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Book SynopsisRanging from vast inland seas to hydro-reservoirs, lakes are unique, complex, ecosystems. Warwick Vincent introduces lake science, or limnology, and the importance of protecting and sustaining these vitally important living resources. He explains the impact of factors such as climate, seasons, salinity, and sedimentation on lake biodiversity.Trade ReviewA fast-track insight into lakes, from how they're formed to a hit list of 'extreme lakes' in unusual places. Packed with facts but not (ahem) a dry read. * Sarah Barrell, National Geographic Traveller *Does an excellent job at showing how biology, chemistry and physics are inextricably linked and necessary to understand lakes. Overall, this short book provides an excellent and lucid introduction to the beauty and complexity of lakes. * Yves Prairie, UNESCO Chair in Global Environmental Change *This book is a sparkling gem! It is a must-read not only for novices intrigued by freshwaters but also academics teaching limnology (study of inland waters) and university students interested in the subject. * Marianne Moore, Frost Professor Emerita in Environmental Science, Wellesley College. *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1: Deep waters 2: Sunlight and motion 3: Life support systems 4: Food chains to fish 5: Extreme lakes 6: Lakes and us Further reading Index

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Book SynopsisWhat is responsible for the differences between the sexes in so many animals, from the brilliant plumage of birds of paradise to the antlers on deer? And why are the traits that distinguish the sexes sometimes apparently detrimental to survival? Even when they look more or less alike, why do males and females sometimes behave differently? Questions like these have intrigued scientists and the public alike for many years, and new discoveries are showing us both how wildly variable the natural world is, and how some basic principles can help explain much of that variation. Like natural selection, sexual selection is a process that results from differential representation of genes in successive generations. Under sexual selection, however, the crucial characteristics that determine whether an individual reproduces depend on sexual competition, rather than survival ability. This Very Short Introduction considers the history of our understanding of sexual selection, from Darwin''s key insights to the modern day. Considering the investment animals place on reproduction, variation in mating systems, sexual conflict, and the origin of sexual dimorphism, Marlene Zuk and Leigh Simmons discuss questions such as whether females can really choose between males on aesthetic grounds, and how sexual conflict is resolved in different species. They conclude with a consideration of the thorny question of how, and even if, sexual selection theory applies to humans.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade Review[A] delightful book ... informative and insightful ... Sexual Selection is thin and relatively cheap, but it's packed with more information than other books four times the size and price. * Mark Greener, Fortean Times *An excellent, fascinating introduction to the recent discoveries that have revolutionized our understanding of competition over mates, mate choice and differences between the sexes. Darwin would have been both pleased and amazed. * Malte Andersson, Professor emeritus, Animal Ecology, University of Gothenburg *Zuk and Simmons' book is enjoyable and informative. * Journal of Mammalogy *Table of Contents1: Darwin's other big idea 2: Choosing from the field of competitors 3: Sex roles and stereotypes 4: Sexual selection after mating 5: Sexual conflict 6: Mating systems, or who goes with whom, and for how long 7: How sex makes species surviveFurther ReadingIndex

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Book SynopsisFor millions of years reptiles have walked, crawled, and slithered over the face of our Earth. From the mighty dinosaurs who dominated the land, the pterosaurs who took to the air, and the marine adapted ichthyosaurs, to the living reptiles today such as the lizards, snakes, crocodiles, and turtles, plus the single species of tuatara in New Zealand, reptiles have come in all shapes and sizes. In this Very Short Introduction Tom Kemp discusses the adaptations reptiles made to first leave the sea and colonise the land in dry conditions, such as their waterproof skin, their ability to expel almost dry waste products, their efficient use of external heat for maintaining their body temperature, and the amniotic egg that is laid and develops on dry land. Considering the different living groups of reptiles today, Kemp then describes how their respective bodies are adapted for their different ways of life, from snake feeding patterns to the way crocodiles breathe. Finally, Kemp assesses the threat of extinction to reptile species due to over-exploitation, habitat destruction, and climate change, and considers what can be done.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewReptiles are more than the 'abhorrent, cold-bodied animals' of classical myth, but 10,000 species of successful animals. Tom Kemp outlines all the key aspects of the biology of lizards, snakes, turtles, and crocodiles, and traces their evolution, all illustrated by intriguing anecdotes * Professor Michael Benton *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1: What is a reptile? 2: The history of reptiles 3: Lizards 4: Snakes 5: Crocodiles 6: Turtles 7: Reptile conservation Further reading Index

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Book SynopsisOver the last forty years the philosophy of biology has emerged as an important sub-discipline of the philosophy of science. Covering some of science''s most divisive topics, such as philosophical issues in genetics, it also encompasses areas where modern biology has increasingly impinged on traditional philosophical questions, such as free will, essentialism, and nature vs nurture.In this Very Short Introduction Samir Okasha outlines the core issues with which contemporary philosophy of biology is engaged. Offering a whistle-stop tour of the history of biology, he explores key ideas and paradigm shifts throughout the centuries, including areas such as the theory of evolution by natural selection; the concepts of function and design; biological individuality; and the debate over adaptationism. Throughout Okasha makes clear the relevance of biology for understanding human beings, human society, and our place in the natural world, and the importance of engaging with these issues.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewOkasha writes beautifully and clearly, presenting and discussing the major contemporary ideas about evolution,adaptation, the species concept, genes, and evolutionary psychology in humans ... I venture to suggest that it should be mandatory reading for anyone contemplating -or having- a degree in biology. * Conservation Biology *Okasha's book will prove to be a very useful resource for introducing undergraduate students to the elements of philosophy of biology. * Joeri Witteveen and Sara Green, Metascience *In this accessible, beautifully and clearly written book, Samir Okasha presents some of the major topics in the Philosophy of Biology. The book illuminates the intimate relations between the science and the philosophy of biology, and is an excellent and solid basis for exploring the new theoretical frameworks and controversies that are emerging in this vibrant field. * Professor Eva Jablonka, Tel Aviv University *In this excellent addition to the Very Short Introduction series, Samir Okasha offers a lucid and concise account of one of the most vital fields in contemporary philosophy. This will be the best starting point for anyone interested in exploring philosophical reflection on the biological sciences. * Philip Kitcher, Columbia University *Table of Contents1: Why philosophy of biology? 2: Evolution and natural selection 3: Teleology, function, and purpose 4: Species and classification 5: Biological individuality 6: Genes 7: Biology, culture, and society Further reading Index

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Book SynopsisA number of extreme weather events have struck the Northern Hemisphere in recent years, from scorching heatwaves to desperately cold winters, and from floods and storms to droughts and wildfires. These events have fuelled intense discussions in scientific conferences, government agencies, cafes, and on street corners around the world. Why are these events happening? Is this the emerging signal of climate change, and should we expect more of this? Media reports vary widely, but one mysterious agent has risen to prominence in many cases: the jet stream.The story begins on a windswept beach in Barbados, from where we follow the ascent of a weather balloon that will travel along the jet stream all around the world. From this viewpoint we observe the effect of the jet in influencing human life around the hemisphere, and witness startling changes emerging. What is the jet stream and how well do we understand it? How does it affect our weather and is it changing? These are the main questions tackled in this book. We learn about how our view of the wind has developed from Aristotle''s early theories up to today''s understanding. We see that the jet is intimately connected with dramatic contrasts between climate zones and has played a key historical role in determining patterns of trade. We learn about the basic physics underlying the jet and how this knowledge is incorporated into computer models which predict both tomorrow''s weather and the climate of future decades. And finally, we discuss how climate change is expected to affect the jet, and introduce the vital scientific debate over whether these changes have contributed to recent extreme weather events.Trade ReviewWoollings suggests that the extreme weather events that have afflicted the northern hemisphere in recent years are connected to the behaviour of the jet stream. He outlines what we know about the jet stream and how it is affecting the planet's climate. * Survival: Global Politics and Strategy *[A] thoroughly original, highly imaginative book ... The book is approachable to an intelligent lay audience. It is judiciously and delightfully illustrated and told as an engaging narrative... * Richard Lofthouse, QUAD *[An] approachable exploration of the jet stream ... The reader is rewarded with plenty of juicy little facts ... a good and surprisingly enjoyable trip around a weather phenomenon. * Brian Clegg, Popular Science *As a professional meteorologist I particularly enjoyed this whirlwind tour through my chosen science in a book that brings seemingly disparate theories together to give a global understanding of the weather ... the book strikes the right balance between facts, figures and diagrams with personal stories about key players in the world of meteorology. I would highly recommend it to both professional meteorologists and those who have an interest in the weather and climate. * Katie Brown, Weather *This book is ideal for lay folk with basic school-level science who have an interest the weather and wish to learn a little more. It would also be a valuable summer holiday read for school leavers anticipating embarking on a meteorology or climate change related course. * Jonathan Cowie, The Science Fact & Science Fiction Concatenation *Tim Woollings is a great story-teller ... I was delighted to find this book a real page-turner! Each topic is treated with a judicious blend of vigor and rigor ... I think this book would be an excellent introduction to the global atmospheric circulation for anyone with a basic background in classical mechanics who is prepared to spend some time grappling with the concepts. But it would also be a good, rapid read for someone who wants a quick overview. * Professor David Andrews *This is an amazing book. In less than 200 slim pages it gives a very readable account of weather and climate ... The reader is given both an interesting historical background and an up-to-date account of many important issues, including climate change. * Sir Brian Hoskins, Imperial College London and University of Reading *This educative, scientifically sound and well-narrated story has the power to inspire further research and reading. A must read for atmospheric scientists and for anyone who enjoys studying our natural environment. * Panos Athanasiadis, CMCC, Bologna *Tim Woollings' book is a grand travelogue of weather, history, and geography, all connected to the winds that circle our globe and the people who have tried to understand them. Anyone who has watched a weather forecast and has wondered why the air does what it does will find this book fascinating. The science is up-to-date and accurate; Woollings doesn't settle for ordinary close-enough-but-wrong explanations but instead explains how weather and climate systems really work. You'll be amazed and awestruck at everything that happens to produce that puff of wind against your cheek. * John Nielsen-Gammon, Texas A&M University *Table of Contents1: Launch 2: Trades 3: Spin 4: Contrasts 5: Waves 6: Storm 7: Tracks 8: Experiments 9: Nino 10: Mountains 11: Gulf 12: Split 13: Drivers 14: Exit 15: Future 16: Changes 17: Confession

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Book SynopsisAntimatter explores a strange mirror world, where particles have identical yet opposite properties to those that make up the familiar matter we encounter everyday; where left becomes right, positive becomes negative; and where, should matter and antimatter meet, the two annihilate in a blinding flash of energy that makes even thermonuclear explosions look feeble by comparison. It is an idea long beloved of science-fiction stories--but here, renowned science writer Frank Close shows that the reality of antimatter is even more fascinating than the fiction itself. We know that once, antimatter and matter existed in perfect counterbalance, and that antimatter then perpetrated a vanishing act on a cosmic scale that remains one of the greatest mysteries of the universe. Today, antimatter does not exist normally, at least on Earth, but we know that it is real for scientists are now able to make small pieces of it in particle accelerators, such as that at CERN in Geneva. Looking at the remarkable prediction of antimatter and how it grew from the meeting point of relativity and quantum theory in the early 20th century, at the discovery of the first antiparticles, at cosmic rays, annihilation, antimatter bombs, and antiworlds, Close separates the facts from the fiction about antimatter, and explains how its existence can give us profound clues about the origins and structure of the universe.Oxford Landmark Science books are ''must-read'' classics of modern science writing which have crystallized big ideas, and shaped the way we think.Trade ReviewReview from previous edition To miss out on books like this is to miss out on a grasp of the astounding nature of the universe, * Nicholas Lezard, The Guardian *The book does not overburden the reader with dense technical details or equations, it rather offers an accessible, elegant, thought-provoking and up-to-date overview on the subject, representing a great resource filled with vital information on antimatter for the science and the science-fiction lovers. * Eric Howard, Contemporary Physics *This compact book is a wonderful source of information on antimatter and offers us a meticulously researched account of the nature, properties and applications of the often overlooked entities in the fantastic antiworld around us. * Chemistry World *This is a must-read for fans of science and science fiction alike * John Gribbin, www.bbcfocusmagazine.com *Beautifully written... This book will inspire a sense of awe in even the most seasoned readers of physics books. * Amanda Gefter, New Scientist *Beautifully concise history of one vital aspect of twentieth-century particle physics. * Mark Ronan, Times Literary Supplement *Table of ContentsForeword: 'Genesis' 1: Antimatter: Fact or Fiction? 2: The Material World 3: Tablets of Stone 4: A Cosmic Discovery 5: Annihilation 6: Storing Antimatter 7: The Mirror Universe 8: Why is There Anything at All? 9: Revelations Appendix: The Cost of Antimatter Appendix: 'The Dirac Code' Notes Bibliography Index

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Book Synopsis''fascinating''Brian CoxThis is the story of citizen science. Where once astronomers sat at the controls of giant telescopes in remote locations, praying for clear skies, now they have no need to budge from their desks, as data arrives in their inbox. And what they receive is overwhelming; projects now being built provide more data in a few nights than in the whole of humanity''s history of observing the Universe. It''s not just astronomy either--dealing with this deluge of data is the major challenge for scientists at CERN, and for biologists who use automated cameras to spy on animals in their natural habitats. Artificial intelligence is one part of the solution--but will it spell the end of human involvement in scientific discovery?No, argues Chris Lintott. We humans still have unique capabilities to bring to bear--our curiosity, our capacity for wonder, and, most importantly, our capacity for surprise. It seems that humans and computers working together do better than computers can on their own. But with so much scientific data, you need a lot of scientists--a crowd, in fact. Lintott found such a crowd in the Zooniverse, the web-based project that allows hundreds of thousands of enthusiastic volunteers to contribute to science.In this book, Lintott describes the exciting discoveries that people all over the world have made, from galaxies to pulsars, exoplanets to moons, and from penguin behaviour to old ship''s logs. This approach builds on a long history of so-called ''citizen science'', given new power by fast internet and distributed data. Discovery is no longer the remit only of scientists in specialist labs or academics in ivory towers. It''s something we can all take part in. As Lintott shows, it''s a wonderful way to engage with science, yielding new insights daily. You, too, can help explore the Universe in your lunch hour.Trade ReviewReview from previous edition Lintott is a great storyteller with a knack for witty anecdotes. Once you start reading, his book is hard to put away. * BBC Sky at Night *Lintott deftly interweaves personal experience and more philosophical ruminations on public participation in science. * Michael West, Nature *The Crowd and the Cosmos has a very conversational style... Not only does Lintott cover citizen science initiatives, but he captures, in an easy-to-understand manner, a number of cutting-edge astronomical research topics... Who knows what is waiting to be discovered in the numerous collected data sets available on the Zooniverse? Thanks to this book, perhaps I will contribute in a small way to the next big discovery. * Matthew Hodgson, Astronomy Now *With a light-handed touch, a passion that shines through, and fun footnotes to make the reader chuckle, the author uncovers the bafflingly-infinite properties of the universe and people and penguins too. * OX Magazine *...very readable, entertaining and informative... Well worth a read. * Martin Richmond-Hardy, OASI Newsletter *The Crowd & the Cosmos is a reminder that the Internet has also given rise to networks of positive accomplishment and that human intuition can still exceed algorithms and artificial intelligence. * Shepherd Express *The Crowd and the Cosmos is a superbly written insight into the unique and powerful contribution enthusiasts from all walks of life can make to scientific knowledge. It is also a fascinating and much-needed description of how we acquire reliable knowledge about nature, from the search for planets and perhaps civilizations around distant stars to observations of penguins in the Antarctic and what they can teach us about the impact we are having on our own world. * Brian Cox *Chris Lintott is a modest genius. He has quietly revolutionised modern astronomy (and a few other branches of science) by using digital platforms to involve the public. Anyone who wants to contribute some of their spare time is invited, through Chris's Zooniverse projects, to participate in real science. Literally millions have taken up the invitation. This is a beautifully readable book, which tells the story of the Zooniverse and much more. Chris is delightfully anecdotal, inclusive and witty, yet never shirks in-depth explanations of the cutting-edge science he's delivering to us, almost before we realise it - this is the New Age of Science for All! * Brian May *The Crowd and the Cosmos gives an authentic flavour of astronomical research and its appeal. But it's especially significant because it offers a first-hand account of how Chris Lintott conceived and led the 'Zooniverse' project, thereby enabling huge numbers to participate in significant research, and even make important discoveries. His pioneering initiative has spawned similar programmes in naval history, conservation and other subjectstriggering a benign social revolution in scholarship and education. * Martin Rees *[A] highly readable book. * David Lorimer, Paradigm Explorer *[Lintott] reflects with passion and curiosity on the detective work needed to explain the mysteries of the Universe. * Lea Shanley, Science Magazine *Table of ContentsPreface 1: Finding planets 2: How science is done 3: The crowd and the cosmos 4: No new ideas 5: Into the Zooniverse 6: Too many penguins 7: Things that go bang in the night 8: Serendipity 9: Humans versus computers Further reading Index

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Book Synopsis Simone Marchi presents the emerging story of how cosmic collisions shaped both the solar system and our own planet, from the creation of the Moon to influencing the evolution of life on Earth. The Earth emerged out of the upheaval and chaos of massive collisions in the infancy of the Solar System, more than four billion years ago. The largest of these events sent into orbit a spray of molten rocks out of which the Moon coalesced. As in ancient mythological tales, this giant catastrophe marks the birth of our planet as we know it. Space exploration has shown that signs of ancient collisions are widespread in the Solar System, from the barren and once-habitable Mars to the rugged asteroids. On Earth these signs are more subtle, but still cataclysmic, such as the massive asteroid strike which likely sparked the demise of the dinosaurs and many other forms of life some 66 million years ago. Signatures of even more dramatic catastrophes are concealed in ancient rocks. These events wreaked havoc on our planet''s surface, influencing global climate and topography, while also enriching the Earth with gold and other rare elements. And recently, modern science is finding that they could even have contributed to developing the conditions conducive to life. In Colliding Worlds, Simone Marchi explores the key role that collisions in space have played in the formation and evolution of our solar system, the development of planets, and possibly even the origin of life on Earth. Analysing our latest understanding of the surfaces of Mars and Venus, gleaned from recent space missions, Marchi presents the dramatic story of cosmic collisions and their legacies.Trade ReviewIn Colliding Worlds, Simone Marchi explores the key role that collisions in space have played in the formation and evolution of our solarsystem, the development of planets, and possibly even the origin of life on Earth. Analyzing our latest understanding of the surfaces of Mars and Venus, gleaned from recent space missions, Marchi presents the dramatic story of cosmic collisions and their legacies. * Lunar and Planetary Information Bulletin No. 167 (January 2022) *Although collisions form the main thread running through the book, it's actually wider in scope than that, covering both the history of the Solar System, and the history of our understanding of it. That includes our understanding of our own planet, and one of the eye-opening facts is how long it took the academic world to recognise the role played by collisions in geological history. Basically, the topic got lost for decades in the gap between the geology and astronomy departments. [...] Marchi's first-hand accounts of work he was personally involved in - such as NASAs Dawn mission to the asteroid belt - make especially fascinating reading. For anyone wanting an up-to-date account of the Solar System and the processes that shape it, this is the perfect place to start. * Brian Clegg, Popular Science *Colliding Worlds is a fascinating and fresh look at the history of our solar system through the lens of the cataclysmic events that have profoundly shaped it. Marchi's engaging and clearly written book helps us understand the nature and significance of impacts for Earth's geologic history and the emergence of life, as well as their implications for our sibling terrestrial planets and exoplanetary systems. * Carol A. Raymond, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology *A fascinating story of how our Solar System was formed, and how we have arrived at the current understanding of it, from the unique perspective of cosmic collisions. Information from a few hundred years of planetary and astronomical research to the latest space exploration is marvellously weaved together. The very success of being able to connect diverse subjects in such a coherent and engaging manner attests to the fundamental importance of cosmic collisions, or "creative destruction" as the author puts it, in our search for the grand theory of planetary formation in the coming years. * Jun Korenaga, Yale University *Table of Contents1: Born out of Fire and Chaos 2: A Clash of Giants 3: Wandering Among the Planets 4: Earth's Wild Years 5: A Watery Mars 6: Creative Destruction Endnotes

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Book Synopsis''Grayling brings satisfying order to daunting subjects'' Steven Pinker_________________________In very recent times humanity has learnt a vast amount about the universe, the past, and itself. But through our remarkable successes in acquiring knowledge we have learned how much we have yet to learn: the science we have, for example, addresses just 5 per cent of the universe; pre-history is still being revealed, with thousands of historical sites yet to be explored; and the new neurosciences of mind and brain are just beginning. What do we know, and how do we know it? What do we now know that we don''t know? And what have we learnt about the obstacles to knowing more? In a time of deepening battles over what knowledge and truth mean, these questions matter more than ever. Bestselling polymath and philosopher A. C. Grayling seeks to answer them in three crucial areas at the frontiers of knowledge: science, history and psychology. A remarkTrade ReviewGrayling brings satisfying order to daunting subjects -- Steven PinkerRemarkable, readable and authoritative. How he has mastered so much, so thoroughly, is nothing short of amazing -- Lawrence M. Krauss, author of A Universe from NothingThis book hums with the excitement of the great human project of discovery -- Adam Zeman, author of AphantasiaProf. Grayling interweaves the recent scientific and archaeological advances into a compelling narrative of how much progress humans have made in the understanding of their place in the natural, social and cognitive worlds. And how ignorant we still remain providing strong motivation to further this understanding by new empirical evidence -- Tejidner Virdee FRSAC Grayling tackles the questions science can't answer... a breathtaking book... Scholarly, lucid and accessible without being patronising or diluting, Grayling offers a masterly exegesis of current knowledge in three disciplines, as well as an analysis of what both opens and obstructs our access to such knowledge - in effect, four books in one -- Jane O'Grady * The Telegraph *An enthusiastic thinker who embraces humour, common sense and lucidity * Independent *

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Book SynopsisAn award-winning physician and scientist makes the game-changing case that genetic females are stronger than males at every stage of life''A powerful antidote to the myth of a weaker sex'' Gina Rippon, author of The Gendered BrainFrom birth, genetic females are better at fighting viruses, infections and cancer. They do better at surviving epidemics and famines. They live longer, and even see the world in a wider variety of colours. These are the facts; they are simply stronger than men at every stage of life. Why? And why are we taught the opposite?Drawing on his wide-ranging experience and cutting-edge research as a medic, geneticist and specialist in rare diseases, Dr Sharon Moalem reveals how the answer lies in our genetics: the female''s double XX chromosomes offer a powerful survival advantage. And he calls for a long-overdue reconsideration of our one-size-fits-all view of the body and medicine - a view that still frames women through the lens of men. Revolutionary, captivating and utterly persuasive, The Better Half will make you see women, men and the survival of our species anew.''Brilliant, original and groundbreaking, highly readable and genuinely useful'' Daily MailTrade ReviewLet's hear it for the X-chromosome! After decades, if not centuries, of bad press for women and their vulnerable biology, The Better Half gives chapter and verse to show that 'almost everything that is biologically difficult to do in life is done better by females'. An eye- and mind-opening celebration of the reserve genetic horsepower that having two X-chromosomes can bestow, The Better Half is a powerful antidote to the myth of a 'weaker sex'. * Gina Rippon, author of The Gendered Brain and Professor Emeritus of Cognitive Neuroimaging at Aston University, Birmingham *Moalem's essential thesis is valid and important, and deserves attention both within the scientific community and beyond. This is a readable and lively book, making an argument long overdue * The Irish Independent *Although Dr. Moalem had me at the subtitle, I tore through this fascinating, eye-opening book in one sitting. Provocative, crackling with wit and insight, THE BETTER HALF argues that science has shortchanged women in all levels of research and convincingly reveals that the true differences between men and women come down to longevity, intellect, resilience, and immunity to disease. Now it all makes sense why 95 percent of people who have reached the age of 110 are women. -- Jancee Dunn * New York Times bestselling author of 'How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids' *A mind-opening celebration of women -- Kate Garraway, broadcaster and journalistThis book provides the crucial scientific reasoning behind why it is essential to include males and females, both in people and animals, in order to get accurate results in medical research. * Temple Grandin, New York Times bestselling author of 'The Autistic Brain' and 'Thinking in Pictures' *A compelling argument for the resilience seen in women. But the real genius is the poetic justice he metes out by highlighting the brilliant women who remain unsung heroes in these discoveries. -- William J. Sullivan * Showalter Professor at Indiana University School of Medicine and author of 'Pleased to Meet Me' *The Better Half explores the genetic differences between males and females in a way that is both original and scientifically compelling. This book provides a great read, and lots to think about, for specialists and the public alike. -- Han G. Brunner, MD, PhD, Professor of Human Genetics at Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, and Maastricht University Medical Center, the Netherlands.Moalem brings deep, yet highly-readable, scientific analysis to the perennial question of what makes men and women different. Ideally, this book will re-set that conversation in research labs, doctors' offices, classrooms, and dinner tables around the world." -- E. Kinney Zalesne, New York Times bestselling collaborator on 'Microtrends: The Small Forces Behind Tomorrow's Big Changes'

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Book Synopsis''A bold, ambitious and truly wonderful history of the world'' Peter Wohlleben, author of The Hidden Life of Trees''A fascinating story and a crucial revision of the momentous importance of tropical forests to human history'' Lewis Dartnell, author of Origins_________________________ Jungle tells the remarkable story of the world''s tropical forests, from the arrival of the first plants millions of years ago to the role of tropical forests in the evolution of the world''s atmosphere, the dinosaurs, the first mammals and even our own species and ancestors. Highlighting provocative new evidence garnered from cutting-edge research, Dr Roberts shows, for example, that our view of humans as ''savannah specialists'' is wildly wrong, and that the ''Anthropocene'' began not with the Industrial Revolution, but potentially as early as 6,000 years ago in the tropics. We see that the relationship between humankind Trade ReviewJungle is a bold, ambitious and truly wonderful history of the world that shows the vital importance of tropical forests to life on Earth -- Peter Wohlleben, author of The Hidden Life of TreesA fascinating story and a crucial revision of the momentous importance of tropical forests to human history. Spanning from our very evolution as a species, to the early stages of globalisation and how we fill our kitchen cupboards today, we all owe far more to jungles than we realise -- Lewis Dartnell, author of OriginsThere are many books on the history of trilobites and dinosaurs and other animals, but so few on the history of plants. Here the dynamic young scientist Patrick Roberts tackles the history of the tropics, from the coal swamps of 300 million years ago, through the co-evolutionary dance of dinosaurs and mammals and flowers, to how our own human history has been shaped by vegetation. As environments are changing rapidly around us today, this is a timely, readable and highly relevant history that celebrates the wonder and importance of jungles -- Steve Brusatte, author of The Rise and Fall of the DinosaursWelcome to the 'Jungle' - a breath-taking book showing that tropical forests were key to our evolution, provide fossil fuels for our modern carbon-hungry society and ultimately must be protected and restored if we are to have a future. This insightful and captivating book will ensure you never take our jungles for granted ever again -- Mark Maslin, author of How to Save Our PlanetAn enthralling jungle-journey from the origins of life on this planet to the present day, Jungle provides a brilliant new perspective on our interaction with tropical forests, placing them at the centre of human experience - and it delivers a timely warning about our abuse of the environment -- David Abulafia, author of The Great SeaJungle sweeps the reader into the primordial heart of the earth, as if the crucible of life welcomed you to its sanctuary. Its revelations and stories will stir, rearrange and populate your mind for years to come. As a book, it is a joy, pure intellectual chocolate -- Paul Hawken, author of DrawdownFinally, a book on rainforests that does justice to their majesty and importance. Patrick Roberts skilfully and lucidly shows why tropical forests matter. He builds the case that people and tropical forests are intimately linked, whether you live in the rainforest or seemingly a world away. Those intricate links are more important than ever today, with ending deforestation playing a key role in solving the twin climate and biodiversity crises we face this century -- Simon Lewis, co-author of The Human PlanetEnormously ambitious, deeply researched, moves with great skill from ecology and evolution to history and politics -- Michael Marshall * New Scientist *Many European and American books and films imply that tropical forests are incapable of sustainably supporting large human societies. Jungle provides a superbly argued refutation of this long-held view . . . a thrilling reappraisal of our origins and our dependence on tropical forests -- Charlie Pye-Smith * Literary Review *

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Book SynopsisFrom one of the world's most influential scientists, an impassioned call for quick and decisive action to save the Earth's rich biological heritage.Trade ReviewThere's a new Darwin. His name is Edward O. Wilson * Tom Wolfe. *A giant among pygmies * Bryan Appleyard, INDEPENDENT *One of the clearest and most dedicated popularizers of science since T.H.Huxley * TIME. *A grippingly detailed account * INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY *

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Book SynopsisFor centuries, electricity was viewed as little more than a curious property of certain substances that sparked when rubbed. Then, in the 1790s, Alessandro Volta began the scientific investigation that ignited an explosion of knowledge and invention, transforming our world. The force that once seemed inconsequential was revealed to be responsible for everything from the structure of the atom to the functioning of our brains. A superb storyteller, Bodanis weaves tales of romance, divine inspiration, and fraud through lucid accounts of scientific breakthrough. The great discoverers come to life in all their brilliance and idiosyncrasy, including the visionary Michael Faraday, who struggled against the prejudices of the British class system, and Alexander Graham Bell, driven to invent by his love for a young deaf student. From the cold waters of the Atlantic, to the streets of Hamburg during a World War II firestorm and the interior of the human body, Electric Universe is a mesmerizing journey of discovery by a master science writer.Trade ReviewHugely impressive. No one makes complex science more fascinating and accessible - and indeed more pleasurable - than David Bodanis * Bill Bryson *A technological odyssey complete with heroes and villains, triumph and tragedy - a true scientific adventure * Simon Singh, author of BIG BANG and FERMAT'S LAST THEOREM *Bodanis unpeels these layers of the electrical onion expertly; his writing is vigorous and sometimes ecstatic . . . ELECTRIC UNIVERSE is a high-voltage performance * DAILY MAIL *A compelling, fast-paced read * OBSERVER *

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Book SynopsisThe Origin of Species may be the most famous book in science but its stature tends to obscure much of Charles Darwin''s other works. His visit to the Galapagos lasted just five weeks and on his return he never left Britain again. Darwin spent forty years working on the plants, animals and people of his native land and wrote over six million words on topics as different as dogs, insect-eating plants, orchids, earthworms, apes and human emotion. Together they laid the foundations of modern biology. In this beautifully written, witty and illuminating book, Steve Jones explores the domestic Darwin, tracing the great naturalist''s journey across Britain: a voyage not of the body, but of the mind.Trade Review** 'Steve Jones who in ALMOST LIKE A WHALE successfully rewrote Darwin in the 21st century, reminds us in DARWIN'S ISLAND that Darwin did actually write 19 other books which are full of insight into the human condition and into the flora and fauna of Britain - hence his title. If you were to read one new book on Darwin this year, this should be it * Christopher Hudson, DAILY MAIL *** 'Darwin's theory of evolution is often imagined to be the result of his voyage to the Galapagos Islands aboard HMS Beagle. But as Steve Jones points out at the start of his enthralling book, he spent only five weeks in the Galapagos, whereas for 40 yea * John Carey SUNDAY TIMES *** 'Wow, Goodness me! Fancy that! Well I never! This is what you will be saying at every other page of Steve Jones's brilliant, remarkable, profound and deeply unsettling book. Your reactions otherwise will be shock and awe: shock at how far down the road to hell humankind has pushed its handcart, and awe at the light way Jones wears his formidable learning. If there is one book to be read at this bicentenary of Charles Darwin's birth and the 150th anniversary of his The Origin of Species, then this must be it * Andy Barclay IRISH TIMES *Darwin's Island fills in the details of four decades that followed his five years on HMS Beagle. A professor of genetics and a gifted writer who has already successfully updated Darwin for the 21st century in an earlier book, Steve Jones is ideally place * Roger Highfield DAILY TELEGRAPH *

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Book Synopsis''Illuminating!'' Professor Brian Cox''Every Steve Jones book is a masterclass in clear and captivating writing with tantalising detours into beguiling anecdotes. Here Comes the Sun is dense with ideas and stories and, like all his books, it will change the way you see the world around you'' Robin Ince Our sun drives the weather, forms the landscape, feeds and fuels - but sometimes destroys - the creatures that live upon it, controls their patterns of activity, makes chemicals in the skin that cheer up those who bask in its rays, and for the ancients was the seat of divine authority.In Here Comes the Sun, Steve Jones shows how life on Earth is ruled by our nearest star. It is filled with unexpected connections; between the need to stay cool and man''s ability to stand upright, between the power of memory and the onset of darkness, between the flow of solar energy through the plants and animals and of wealth through society, and betTrade ReviewWith wry wit and real clarity, geneticist Steve Jones examines the Sun and our relationship to it. It's a nimble narrative, from the physics of the "hydrogen bomb in the sky" to its impact on the biosphere, water cycle, food chain, human health and climate change. Jones braids in gripping storylines - on conditions linked to lack of sunlight (such as the bone disease rickets) and the interplay between night, day and sleep - and many throwaway gems, from primates urinating on themselves to stay cool, to the boiling-porridge turbulence of convection on the solar surface * Nature *A richly readable guide to all things solar . . . one of the country's best writers of popular science. His wit, insight and ability to home in on a subject's most memorable facts enliven Here Comes The Sun from the start * Daily Mail *A must read for everyone and anyone who cares about life on Earth -- Barry Sheerman MP * The House magazine *Every Steve Jones book is a masterclass in clear and captivating writing with tantalising detours into beguiling anecdotes. Here Comes the Sun is dense with ideas and stories and, like all his books, it will change the way you see the world around you -- Robin InceFrom solar storms to Spanish snails, scented cakes to sleep science, this book shimmers with fascinating facts. Illuminating, warm, fascinating and funny - Steve Jones' writing is as brightly illuminating as the sunlight he writes about. A shimmering tale of sun, snails and science -- Professor Alice Roberts

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Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE INVESTIGATIVE FOOD WORK AWARD AT THE GUILD OF FOOD WRITERS AWARDS 2023''The most incredible book'' Delia Smith''Persuasive, entertaining and well researched'' Sunday TimesPlant-based is best for health, go vegan to help save the planet, eat less meat... Almost every day we are bombarded with the seemingly incontrovertible message that we must reduce our consumption of meat and dairy - or eliminate them from our diets altogether.But what if the pervasive message that the plant-based diet will improve our health and save the planet is misleading - or even false? What if removing animal foods from our diet is a serious threat to human health, and a red herring in the fight against climate change.In THE GREAT PLANT-BASED CON, Jayne Buxton demonstrates that each of these ''what-ifs'' is, in fact, a reality. Drawing on the work of numerous health experts and researchers, she uncovers how the separate efforts of a constellation of individuals, companies and organisations are leading us down a dietary road that will have severe repercussions for our health and wellbeing, and for the future of the planet.THE GREAT PLANT-BASED CON is neither anti-plant nor anti-vegan - it is a call for us to take an honest look at the facts about human diets and their effect on the environment. Shocking and eye-opening, this book outlines everything you need to know to make more informed decisions about the food you choose to eat.Trade ReviewThe most incredible book -- Delia Smith * The Food Programme, BBC Radio 4 *How I have waited for this book! A much needed, fact-packed, lucidly argued demolition of pervasive, endlessly recycled, anti-animal source food propaganda, and a very welcome, closely argued, well-reasoned defence of our traditional omnivore diet -- Joanna BlythmanA brave, well-researched and highly readable book that confronts the many myths about meat, health and climate change. Buxton's deep dive into the science and politics of these questions makes this book a must-read for anyone who cares about their health - or the planet -- Nina Teicholz, science journalist and bestselling author of THE BIG FAT SURPRISETHE GREAT PLANT-BASED CON is persuasive, entertaining and well researched ... the book will help to alleviate the guilt many of us feel about our diets -- Louise Eccles * Sunday Times *[A] forensic examination of the evidence ... Buxton is brilliant at reminding us of some basic statistical truths, ones that are usually forgotten these days ... It's refreshing to read a book which recognises that life is complicated -- Mark Mason * Daily Mail, Book of the Week *A calm, incisive dissection of veganism's salvationist claim to protect human health and the planet -- John Lewis-Stempel * Country Life *In THE GREAT PLANT-BASED CON, Jayne Buxton provides insightful analyses and thoughtful alternatives to narratives about plant-based diets, human and environmental health. Her engrossing account is food-for-thought for everyone, be they herbivorous, omnivorous, or carnivorous. I promote this entrée at every opportunity -- Fred Provenza, Professor Emeritus of Behavioural Ecology, Utah State University and author of NOURISHMENT: WHAT ANIMALS CAN TEACH US ABOUT REDISCOVERING OUR NUTRITIONAL WISDOMTHE GREAT PLANT-BASED CON is absolutely exceptional. When you've read works of Gary Taubes and Nina Teicholz, you'll need to add this to your essential reading list. I was ignorant of so much that is so elegantly explained -- Professor Tim NoakesIntelligent and very well-researched ... [Jayne is] able to be objective and speak out without losing a university seat or a research grant, but with knowledge of the food industry from a career in consultancy. She has sifted through all the scientific arguments fairly and produced a very readable book that explains it all in a way that can easily be digested ... a fascinating read and its intelligent explanation of the way that Big Food makes us ill, and Big Pharma makes another fast buck curing us, may yet make it a seminal classic, similar in its impact to Rachel Carson's brilliant exposé of chemical pesticides, Silent Spring, two generations ago. There is no doubting Buxton's conclusion that we have been conned ... a brave book -- Jamie Blackett * Daily Telegraph *With incredible skill, Jayne Buxton captures the edifice of intellectual and cultural fraud behind today's mythology of the safety plant-based eating. Everyone needs this important and timely book -- Sally K. Norton MPH, nutritional scientist and author of TOXIC SUPERFOODSJayne Buxton's compelling read THE PLANT-BASED CON challenges the 'plant-biased' narrative sweeping across the globe and embedding itself into the very fabric of our society. Jayne takes a deep dive into the vested interests and religious ideology shaping the plant-based con, leaving no stone unturned ... I highly recommend this book! -- Belinda Fettke, https://isupportgary.com

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Book SynopsisVaccines are a debate, whether we want them to be or not. Now more than ever, it''s easy to feel overwhelmed by the accusations and arguments that bloom across the news and internet.With a blend of science and history, HOW VACCINES WORK demystifies the strange and intricate world of vaccines: it explains what a vaccine is, how they are discovered and developed, and what happens when they meet our bodies.With over two decades of experience as an immunologist, David Miles gives expert insight into each vaccine routinely used in Britain, how they have kept us healthy, and why many people have come to worry about possible side effects. Through thrilling storytelling and in-depth exploration of the most common vaccination myths, HOW VACCINES WORK is the perfect guide to understanding all the vaccines we currently receive.Trade ReviewA very good combination of the history of current vaccines and an explanation of what they do and how they do it. As a book for the lay public it is exceptional and I would recommend it to any prospective vaccine recipient or parent -- Stanley A Plotkin, Emeritus Professor of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania

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