The Riddle Of Gravitation

Nonmathematical introduction to conceptual foundations of both Newton's and Einstein's theories of gravity features updated material on gravity waves, singularities, and other current topics. 88 illustrations. 1968 edition.

SUMMARY In the offered work, unlike the majority of formal theories, the author considers a problem of gravitation with causally consecutive point of view. By logic of researches of known facts and existing theories of this direction, he comes to conclusion about unknown fundamental property of a matter causing the gravitational phenomena. The authors explanation is not difficult to mastering both with causal and quantitative points of view. However, it demands deep changes in accepted beliefs and approaches. On the basis of the offered causal essence of gravitation, the author deduces the law of universal gravitation of Newton; he defines the theoretical value of a gravitational constant and calculates known gravitational effects, with the use of simple mathematical reasoning only. The subsequent results of the offered concept are corresponding with the checked up results of Einsteins general theory of relativity (GTR). However, for planned new experiments, on detection of gravitational waves and gravymagnetic effect, negative results are predicted. The mentioned circumstance may allow judging about value of the offered explanation in a not-far future. Despite of complexities of the studied problem, the book is narrated in a free, polemical style, stipulated for a wide range of readers. * The picture used on the cover is the Galaxy Andromeda M 31, from site www.ASTROLAB.ru . Refer to www.physicsandlogic.com

Consciousness has become a major topic of scientific interest, and dozens of books have been written in recent years to explain it, yet it still remains a mystery. Science and the Riddle of Consciousness explains why consciousness is a riddle for science, and demonstrates how this riddle can be solved. The questions examined in the book speak directly to neuroscientists, computer scientists, psychologists, and philosophers.

This detailed account of the controversy surrounding the publication of Albert Einstein's theory of relativity explores the ferocious popular and academic opposition which at one time encircled one of the most important scientific breakthroughs of the twentieth century. Based on extensive archival research, this fascinating discourse includes a compelling and entertaining examination of the contemporary literature created by Einstein's detractors. Exploring the arguments and strategies, social contexts, and motivations of Einstein's detractors, and providing unique insights into the dynamics of scientific controversies, this book is ideal for anyone interested in the history and philosophy of physics, popular science, and the public understanding of science.

This book is a printed edition of the Special Issue "100 Years of Chronogeometrodynamics: the Status of the Einstein's Theory of Gravitation in Its Centennial Year" that was published in Universe

Since Einstein first described them nearly a century ago, gravitational waves have been the subject of more sustained controversy than perhaps any other phenomenon in physics. These as yet undetected fluctuations in the shape of space-time were first predicted by Einstein's general theory of relativity, but only now, at the dawn of the twenty-first century, are we on the brink of finally observing them. Daniel Kennefick's landmark book takes readers through the theoretical controversies and thorny debates that raged around the subject of gravitational waves after the publication of Einstein's theory. The previously untold story of how we arrived at a settled theory of gravitational waves includes a stellar cast from the front ranks of twentieth-century physics, including Richard Feynman, Hermann Bondi, John Wheeler, Kip Thorne, and Einstein himself, who on two occasions avowed that gravitational waves do not exist, changing his mind both times. The book derives its title from a famously skeptical comment made by Arthur Stanley Eddington in 1922--namely, that "gravitational waves propagate at the speed of thought." Kennefick uses the title metaphorically to contrast the individual brilliance of each of the physicists grappling with gravitational-wave theory against the frustratingly slow progression of the field as a whole. Accessibly written and impeccably researched, this book sheds new light on the trials and conflicts that have led to the extraordinary position in which we find ourselves today--poised to bring the story of gravitational waves full circle by directly confirming their existence for the very first time.