Customer Reviews

Beyond Measure: Modern Physics, Philosophy, and the Meaning of Quantum Theory

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Two thumbs up (in superpostion)! By far the best overview of Quantum theory that I've read thus far (out of 10 books). The author doesn't pick and choose from the competing interpretations of QT to advance an agenda, (philosophical, social, political, or scientific). QT development is presented in its historical context with all the resistance that accompanies new theories. Alternatives to the orthodox Copenhagen interpretation are fairly presented. All the mathematics are thankfully placed in appendices at the end of the book. Still, some of the text explaining experimental setup and reasoning was too technical for me, but I grasped the gist of the "interpretation." The meaning of QT is still being debated. The many interpretations articulated in the many theories designed to explain microphysics phenomena essentially boil down to 2 competing metaphysical postions: the "anti-realist" Copenhagen interpretation (Heisenberg, Bohr, Pauli) and the "realist" hidden variables interpretation (Einstein, Schrodinger, Bohm, etc.). This is obviously an oversimplification, but I can confidently now state that I understand that I don't understand Quantum Theory.

Jim Baggott has done a great job of going through non-relativistic, with a smattering of relativistic, quantum mechanics. In the book's appendices there are clear, and concise mathematical explanations of the basic framework of quantum mechanics that anyone, with a working knowledge of algebra, should have no problems with. The book doesn't just deal with the physics of quantum mechanics, but also touches on the philosophical interpretations of what it may mean. It does all of this in an accessible way, without getting over-technical, and without getting airy fairy. This book always remains grounded in science, and I would recommend it to any lay person interested in learning more about quantum mechanics, and especially to college students taking courses in quantum mechanics. And for that matter, I think post-graduates will find this book an interesting, and rewarding read too.

I have spent many hours in several college libraries skimming books on quantum mechanics. I have found most books are either too heavy with mathematics or too short in explanation. "Beyond Measure" is just the right mix. I now understand the basic principles, and the math (placed appropriately in the appendix) is not overly complex. I recommend this book to any undergraduate student considering his/her first course in quantum mechanics.

Book was very well written. Basically a revision of author's earlier book "The Meaning of Quantum Mechanics" with some updated and added material.

This was just the tonic I needed to get past the perceived barrier of mystery surrounding micro physics. Jim Baggott writing is clear and the subject is well organized. I feel I am no longer ignorant of this amazing field.