Thomas Levenson Knihy

Pozoruhodné vyprávění o významné epoše života slavného fyzika je zároveň vynikající historickou sondou do poměrů v meziválečné Evropě.

For over fifty years, the world's leading scientists searched for the elusive planet Vulcan, a phantom world dictated by Isaac Newton's theories of gravity. Despite extensive efforts and claims of discovery by skilled astronomers, Vulcan was never there. The narrative begins with Newton, whose 1687 work explained the motion of all matter in the universe. Nearly two centuries later, Urbain-Jean-Joseph Le Verrier built on Newton's theories to discover Neptune, gaining fame and attempting to predict Vulcan's existence. However, it was Albert Einstein who ultimately revealed that the quest for Vulcan stemmed from flaws in Newton's gravitational theory. His general theory of relativity demonstrated that Vulcan could not exist, highlighting that the search was based on incorrect assumptions about the universe. This account uncovers the untold story of how the nineteenth-century pursuit of Vulcan paved the way for Einstein's groundbreaking insights, marking a pivotal moment in scientific history and establishing one of the greatest intellectual achievements of the twentieth century.

Exploring the world's first financial crisis, this narrative delves into a pivotal episode in the early history of financial markets. It offers fresh insights and a lively recounting that captivates readers while illuminating the complexities and implications of the crisis. Historians and enthusiasts alike will find this account both intriguing and enlightening, showcasing the enduring relevance of this historical event.

Already famous throughout Europe for his theories of planetary motion and gravity, Isaac Newton decided to take on the job of running the Royal Mint. This is a compelling book about crime, science and money, and transforms our image of Britain's greatest scientist.

Exploring the pivotal role of germs in disease, this book delves into the historical journey of scientific discovery, highlighting the interplay between human reasoning and the challenges posed by ego. It uncovers the complexities of understanding infectious agents and the impact of this knowledge on medicine and society, illustrating how the quest for truth can be both enlightening and fraught with obstacles.