![Amazon prime logo](https://cdn.statically.io/img/m.media-amazon.com/images/G/01/marketing/prime/new_prime_logo_RGB_blue._CB426090081_.png)
Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime
Try Prime
and start saving today with fast, free delivery
Amazon Prime includes:
Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.
Amazon Prime members enjoy:- Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
- Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
- Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
- A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
- Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
- Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access
Important: Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.
Buy new:
$16.54$16.54
Ships from: Amazon.com Sold by: Amazon.com
Save with Used - Acceptable
$4.52$4.52
$3.99 delivery August 12 - 13
Ships from: Goodwill Retail Services, Inc. Sold by: Goodwill Retail Services, Inc.
1.27 mi | ASHBURN 20147
Returnable | Yes |
---|---|
Resolutions | Eligible for refund or replacement |
Return Window | 30 days from delivery |
Refund Timelines | Typically, an advance refund will be issued within 24 hours of a drop-off or pick-up. For returns that require physical verification, refund issuance may take up to 30 days after drop-off or pick up. Where an advance refund is issued, we will re-charge your payment method if we do not receive the correct item in original condition. See details here. |
Late fee | A late fee of 20% of the item price will apply if you complete the drop off or pick up after the ‘Return By Date’. |
Restocking fee | A restocking fee may apply if the item is not returned in original condition and original packaging, or is damaged or missing parts for reasons not due to Amazon or seller error. See details here. |
Return instructions
Item must be in original condition and packaging along with tag, accessories, manuals, and inserts. Unlock any electronic device, delete your account and remove all personal information. |
Returnable | Yes |
---|---|
Resolutions | Eligible for refund or replacement |
Return Window | 30 days from delivery |
Refund Timelines | Typically, an advance refund will be issued within 24 hours of a drop-off or pick-up. For returns that require physical verification, refund issuance may take up to 30 days after drop-off or pick up. Where an advance refund is issued, we will re-charge your payment method if we do not receive the correct item in original condition. See details here. |
Late fee | A late fee of 20% of the item price will apply if you complete the drop off or pick up after the ‘Return By Date’. |
Restocking fee | A restocking fee may apply if the item is not returned in original condition and original packaging, or is damaged or missing parts for reasons not due to Amazon or seller error. See details here. |
Return instructions
Item must be in original condition and packaging along with tag, accessories, manuals, and inserts. Unlock any electronic device, delete your account and remove all personal information. |
![Kindle app logo image](https://cdn.statically.io/img/m.media-amazon.com/images/G/01/kindle/app/kindle-app-logo._CB668847749_.png)
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Image Unavailable
Color:
-
-
-
- To view this video download Flash Player
Seven Brief Lessons On Physics Paperback – January 1, 2012
Purchase options and add-ons
- LanguageEnglish
- PublisherALLEN LANE
- Publication dateJanuary 1, 2012
- Dimensions7.8 x 5.08 x 0.28 inches
- ISBN-109780141981727
Frequently bought together
![Seven Brief Lessons On Physics](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81Iz11keeTL._AC_UL116_SR116,116_.jpg)
Similar items that may ship from close to you
- The Order of TimePaperbackFREE Shipping on orders over $35 shipped by AmazonGet it as soon as Saturday, Aug 10
- Reality Is Not What It Seems: The Journey to Quantum GravityPaperbackFREE Shipping on orders over $35 shipped by AmazonGet it as soon as Saturday, Aug 10
- Helgoland: Making Sense of the Quantum RevolutionPaperbackFREE Shipping on orders over $35 shipped by AmazonGet it as soon as Saturday, Aug 10
- There Are Places in the World Where Rules Are Less Important Than Kindness: And Other Thoughts on Physics, Philosophy and the WorldHardcoverFREE Shipping on orders over $35 shipped by AmazonGet it as soon as Saturday, Aug 10
- Six Easy Pieces: Essentials of Physics Explained by Its Most Brilliant TeacherPaperbackFREE Shipping on orders over $35 shipped by AmazonGet it as soon as Saturday, Aug 10
- White HolesHardcoverFREE Shipping on orders over $35 shipped by AmazonGet it as soon as Saturday, Aug 10
Get to know this book
What's it about?
A poetic, mind-bending exploration of modern physics' biggest ideas, from relativity to quantum mechanics and the universe's architecture.Amazon editors say...
One of the most wondrous, mind-expanding books you can read.
Chris Schluep, Amazon EditorPopular highlight
In quantum mechanics no object has a definite position, except when colliding headlong with something else.3,431 Kindle readers highlighted thisPopular highlight
Or does it mean, as it seems to me, that we must accept the idea that reality is only interaction?3,083 Kindle readers highlighted thisPopular highlight
All of this is the result of an elementary intuition: that space and gravitational field are the same thing.2,286 Kindle readers highlighted this
From the Publisher
![43](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/aplus-media/sota/33848c1f-13d2-4380-bc97-3ab9676c2001.__CR0,0,970,300_PT0_SX970_V1___.jpg)
Product details
- ASIN : 0141981725
- Publisher : ALLEN LANE; 1st edition (January 1, 2012)
- Language : English
- ISBN-10 : 9780141981727
- Item Weight : 4.9 ounces
- Dimensions : 7.8 x 5.08 x 0.28 inches
- Best Sellers Rank: #111,255 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
- Customer Reviews:
Videos
Videos for this product
0:55
Click to play video
A great guide to further understanding of physics
One Minute Reviews
Videos for this product
0:36
Click to play video
Honest review of 7 brief lessons on physics
Haley Thomas
About the author
![Carlo Rovelli](https://cdn.statically.io/img/m.media-amazon.com/images/S/amzn-author-media-prod/c9k5ec3p6ldqji84t6lmudfq5._SY600_.jpg)
Discover more of the author’s books, see similar authors, read author blogs and more
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers find the book fun, interesting, and deeply moving. They also describe it as a quick, easy read that provides a practical rundown. Readers describe the content as enlightening, intentional, economical, and clear. They describe the writing as very well written and full of colorful insight into the world of physicists.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers find the book very enlightening, practical, and brilliant for non-physicists. They say it explains some of the major theories without needing a background in physics. Readers also mention that every page is a gem, using simple metaphors and clear language.
"...Einstein’s theories are simply and elegantly explained in plain non-scientific language...." Read more
"...Seven Brief Lessons on Physics by Carlo Rovelli. It is a nice companion book for the not even amateur reader like myself and a lovely intro for one..." Read more
"Perfect for the science/math-curious, and still nice for the already science/math-comfortable.It's an engaging & fast read." Read more
"Not a difficult read and very interesting subjects, all explained in a non academic way...." Read more
Customers find the book very well written, nearly poetic, and eloquent. They also say the English version flows smoothly and is full of colorful insight into the world of the physicist.
"...Please read it, it is very nearly poetic and written to the intelligence of the most casual reader...." Read more
"...In a very scientific but specially in a very human style, Rovelly clarify lots of doubts and helps positivelly to update the general public on the..." Read more
"This brief, beautifully written book is not only a clear and profound discussion of the greatest achievements of modern physics, it is also a..." Read more
"...I enjoyed his writing style and his excitement for shedding light on these topics clearly illuminates the reader's curiosity...." Read more
Customers find the book a quick, brief read that provides a practical rundown and jumping off point. They also say the lessons are understandable enough to peak their imagination.
"...Together they provide a rapid overview of the most fascinating aspects of the great revolution that has occurred in physics in the twentieth and..." Read more
"Very short essays on major areas of modern physics. The more philosophical insights are interesting, but the discussion of physics is superficial...." Read more
"Not a difficult read and very interesting subjects, all explained in a non academic way...." Read more
"...Rovelli's essays are among the clearest and most comprehensible summaries of the astonishing breakthroughs in modern physics that any reader will..." Read more
Customers find the book easy to understand, with no mathematical explanations. They also say it makes physics accessible and enchanting.
"Requires a high level of curiosity about physics but easily understood. And satisfying for low to mid level student of physicsEnjoy!" Read more
"Not a difficult read and very interesting subjects, all explained in a non academic way...." Read more
"...This book, however, while certainly very short and basic, does help to explain some of the major theories, without your needing a background in the..." Read more
"Book is a an easy given the information it provides. Not overwhelming for someone who just wants the basics of physics." Read more
Customers find the book fun, interesting, and well worth the time. They also say the author's enthusiasm is infectious, and he's a great tour guide. Readers also mention the book is profound, lucid, and deeply moving. They say it's not overwhelming for someone who just wants the basics of physics, and that the author injects some humor.
"...And satisfying for low to mid level student of physicsEnjoy!" Read more
"...It's an engaging & fast read." Read more
"...It is profound, lucid, and deeply moving. It is about the meaning of life itself, and it is wonderful." Read more
"...us on the status of the universe with remarkable brevity, and it's worth reading if you are interested in these concepts or know nothing about them..." Read more
Customers find the book's reading pace quick, fast, and easy. They say it's a great way to get a quick update on the latest thoughts on Physics.
"...It's an engaging & fast read." Read more
"...A fast read, but far from shallow." Read more
"...It goes by quick and entertainingly, even on otherwise very difficult subjects." Read more
"...Nonetheless, it was a pleasant read and fast...Each chapter just left me hungry for more details...." Read more
Reviews with images
![Nice light reading until Chapter 7](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/G/01/x-locale/common/transparent-pixel._V192234675_.gif)
-
Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
By Bob Gelms
I have two science books that, over the years, have become my favorites, The Elegant Universe and The Field. I have just found a third, Carlo Rovelli’s Seven Brief Lessons on Physics. Keep reading, it’s not what you think.
First of all I have to tell you that there isn’t any math in the book. There is one equation that Mr. Rovelli prints just to show you what it looks like. It’s not very famous unless you are already a physicist. In the preface he states, “These lessons were written for those who know little or nothing about modern science. Together they provide a rapid overview of the most fascinating aspects of the great revolution that has occurred in physics in the twentieth and twenty first century…”
In the spirit of Mr. Rovelli’s book, physics is the concrete explanation of the magic of the universe. It is the search for the truth about how everything in the universe operates interdependently on a grand scale (galaxies) and on the minute scale (electrons, protons, neutrons, quarks, gluons, etc.) This search, at times, has been fraught with the real danger of losing your life. Galileo was almost burned at the stake, commuted to life imprisoned under house arrest, for simply saying that the Earth revolved around the Sun. Scientists in the twentieth century are a little better off.
The book is very short. If you have the print version, it’s 81 pages long, with only seven chapters called lessons. It starts at the beginning of the twentieth century with, next to Isaac Newton, the most important physicist in all of history, Albert Einstein. Einstein’s theories are simply and elegantly explained in plain non-scientific language. The culmination of his work is called A General Theory of Relativity, in addition to three or four other papers that were glossed over and initially laughed at.
Once the scientific community caught up with Einstein’s brain they were struck dumb with the beauty and simplicity of his vision for the operation of the universe. It has always struck me curious that when he won the Nobel Prize it wasn’t for relativity (E=MC2). It was for one of those glossed over papers on the nature of light. He did all of his work on relativity and the photoelectric effect in 1905, when he was 26 years old. Over the years, he became a towering giant in the history of science while remaining a gentle and kind man.
The second lesson covers the exact opposite of Einstein’s theories. Planck, Bohr, and Heisenberg all contributed in some degree to the theory of the littlest “things” in the universe, which came to be called quantum mechanics. It deals with atoms and the particles that make them up, showing how they interact with the ever-changing landscape around and in them. Then all hell broke loose.
It seems that the rules and regs that describe perfectly Einstein’s big universe of galaxies, stars, solar systems and planets do not work if you apply those rules and regs to the little world of quantum mechanics. Conversely if you take the rules and regs of the little universe of quantum mechanics and apply them to Einstein’s big universe you will find that they don’t work. WELL. Both theories contradict one another and they shouldn’t because they both work perfectly in their own space and time. The big prize in physics these days is to find the link between the two because it is inherent in both theories that there be something that draws them together. Einstein called it the unified field theory and he tried to find it his whole life. He failed.
Lessons One, Two and Seven are the far and away the most interesting and most important in the book. The other essays cover more popular topics like time, black holes, probability, particles, and a lesson called Grains of Space which is a brief explanation of a theory founded by Mr. Rovell, himself a theoretical physicist. In it, he attempts, I think, to reconcile the big with the small worlds of physics. It is called loop quantum gravity and it’s where general relativity meets quantum mechanics.
In many ways the most interesting of all the essays is the last one. It’s simply called Ourselves. This is where Mr. Rovelli attempts to equate us, homo sapiens, to the interworking of the universe. We are all made of stardust put together using the immutable laws of nature. Our bodies conform to how the atoms we are made of obey quantum mechanics and the way in which we pass through time and space. It is utterly fascinating. I had an “oh wow” moment.
I’d like to close with Mr. Rovelli’s words. “Here, on the edge of what we know, in contact with the ocean of the unknown, shines the mystery and the beauty of the world. And it’s breathtaking.”
Somewhere along the line I got interested in reading into Quantum physics. All the while clinging to the famous quote to the effect that if you think you understand Quantum, you don’t.
And so, to this slim gem of a book. Seven Brief Lessons on Physics by Carlo Rovelli. It is a nice companion book for the not even amateur reader like myself and a lovely intro for one barely willing to read its 80 pages. Please read it, it is very nearly poetic and written to the intelligence of the most casual reader.
For me, there was little new for about 3 chapters. These were fun because he gave me another way to think about and understand things, I had struggled to take in.
Then he steps int what is more nearly poetry than science, and is entirely science. What we are asked to consider is that the universe is driven by probability. The outcome of every interaction is never more than a probability. Enven heat flows one way because that way is the more likely. For that matter, try this for contemplation. Time is (probably) heat flow.
The past is gone, the future does not exist yet, but we are all certain of the right now. Why? What does ‘now’ mean? How do you express it as a formula? Great questions. Follow these thoughts where Rovelli takes you then launch out into your own directions.
Enjoy!
It's an engaging & fast read.
Top reviews from other countries
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/amazon-avatars-global/default._CR0,0,1024,1024_SX48_.png)
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/amazon-avatars-global/f3e13a02-9d7b-44a3-b441-da7be694f7ed._CR0,0,375,375_SX48_.jpg)
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/amazon-avatars-global/default._CR0,0,1024,1024_SX48_.png)
![](https://images-eu.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/amazon-avatars-global/default._CR0,0,1024,1024_SX48_.png)
![](https://images-eu.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/amazon-avatars-global/default._CR0,0,1024,1024_SX48_.png)