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Quantum Theory: A Very Short Introduction

by John Polkinghorne

A compact, equation-light map of quantum theory’s central puzzles

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Paperback New English

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AlbakiReads Editorial

A compact, equation-light map of quantum theory’s central puzzles

John Polkinghorne introduces quantum theory through the concepts that distinguish the subatomic world from everyday intuition: uncertainty, probability, complementarity, measurement, and decoherence. The book keeps its main discussion free of equations while acknowledging that quantum theory is not a settled set of interpretations; unresolved questions around what measurement means remain part of the subject. A mathematical appendix provides an optional route for those who want to engage more formally. In a brief format, the emphasis falls on the ideas and conceptual problems behind a foundational area of modern physics.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • Newcomers seeking a concise introduction to quantum theory
  • Readers interested in the conceptual and philosophical questions raised by physics
  • Those who prefer a main text without equations, with optional mathematical material

Themes

Quantum theoryUncertainty and probabilityMeasurement problemComplementarityDecoherence

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Book overview

Quantum Theory is the most revolutionary discovery in physics since Newton. This book gives a lucid, exciting, and accessible account of the surprising and counterintuitive ideas that shape our understanding of the sub-atomic world. It does not disguise the problems of interpretation that still remain unsettled 75 years after the initial discoveries. The main text makes no use of equations, but there is a Mathematical Appendix for those desiring stronger fare. Uncertainty, probabilistic physics, complementarity, the problematic character of measurement, and decoherence are among the many topics discussed. This volume offers the reader access to one of the greatest discoveries in the history of physics and one of the outstanding intellectual achievements of the twentieth century.

About the Series: Combining authority with wit, accessibility, and style, Very Short Introductions offer an introduction to some of life's most interesting topics. Written by experts for the newcomer, they demonstrate the finest contemporary thinking about the central problems and issues in hundreds of key topics, from philosophy to Freud, quantum theory to Islam.
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