The Cosmic Code: Quantum Physics as the Language of Nature [Mass Market Paperback]

Heinz R. Pagels (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 1, 1984

This is one of the most important books on quantum mechanics ever written for lay readers, in which an eminent physicist discusses and explains the core concepts of physics without resorting to complicated mathematics. "Can be read by anyone. I heartily recommend it!" — New York Times Book Review. 1982 edition.

--This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Product Details

• Mass Market Paperback: 333 pages
• Publisher: Bantam (April 1, 1984)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0553246259
• ISBN-13: 978-0553246254
• Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 4.2 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (13 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #405,724 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

33 of 34 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Best Quantum Physics Overview, June 4, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Cosmic Code: Quantum Physics As the Language of Nature (Hardcover)

It is a shame that this book is out of print. Pagels' lucid explanations of the quantum world are the best within lay science publishing. I also believe that Pagels' rational approach is far and away a better introduction/exploration than the Eastern Mysticism-based books like Zukav's "The Dancing Wu Li Masters" or Fritjof Capra's "The Tao of Physics." Of course, those books are useful as entertainment (as exotic Parallelism) but it should be noted that the connections between Eastern Mysticism and Quantum Mechanics in regards to questions of conciousness and reality are not accepted as valid by any but a minuscule minority of thinkers. Pagels' approach is much more true to the thinking in new physics circles. In regards to a second edition that Mr. Beagle is hoping for, it will not be forthcoming due to the untimely demise of Pagels in a mountaineering accident in the late 80's. He is sorely missed! Also, for the very best in Computer Culture-related lay science (even though it is somewhat dated) I can't recommend his "The Dreams of Reason" highly enough - especially to those familiar with his other works! I've seen both books in used book shops many times.

27 of 28 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A durable, indelible work..., July 15, 2002

By 

Laurie Fletcher "Laurie Fletcher" (Casper, Wyoming, USA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Cosmic Code: Quantum Physics as the Language of Nature (Mass Market Paperback)

I've been a fan of this book since it was published in hard back in 1982 and recent re-reading remind me that it is still one of the best, most accessible lay books on quantum physics that has ever been written. It is a little hard to track down sometimes, but perhaps they will eventually reissue it. Unfortunately, Heinz Pagels died in a mountain climbing accident years ago and won't be able to update this wonderful book. It would be great if one of his many colleagues and admirers would undertake to do it.

20 of 22 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The best book on a complex, abstract subject, October 1, 2003

By 

Loris Desa (West Los Angeles, CA United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Cosmic Code: Quantum Physics as the Language of Nature (Mass Market Paperback)

This is the best Quantum Physics book even written for the lay man. Infact, it might even be the best popular science book ever written. I have been a fan of this book for over 15 years and I feel that it is "must read" for every student involved or pursuing any branch of pure science (not necessarily physics).

Amazingly well explained concepts that stream you to the miniscule, abstract world of Quantum Mechanics.