Pulp Physics: Astronomy: Humankind in Space and Time

by Richard Berendzen

In this introduction to the history of astronomy and physics, Richard Berendzen explains the role of these sciences in the world from ancient Greece, Persia, Egypt, and China to the twentieth-century space program. He also explores the effects that knowledge of astronomy and physics has had on human civilizations. Those who admire the work and writings of Carl Sagan will find Berendzen's observations a welcome addition to their audio libraries. Included is a detailed and simple explanation of how planets and comets move in outer space. This layman's guide to physical astronomy is a wonderful and simple explanation of our exterior world.

Genres: Science

6 pages, Audio Cassette

First published May 10, 2001

Reviews

[Michael Good · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book. I love books where I get to delve deep into topics that are interesting but are outside my field of study. This book breaks down more topics than I could possibly list here in a readable and interesting format. I learned tons of new things about the universe and astronomy and I feel much more prepared to understand any sort of scientific discovery about the universe that is published now.

[Samuel R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very thought-provoking read. I would recommend this to anyone that is interested in astronomy at all.

[Margot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Besides the incredible quality of that presentation the voice of Berendzen makes you feel like you were experiencing a sort of initiation to the most secret mysteries of the universe. And in some aspects it is the case! This is probably one of the most fantastic way to learn more about physics and astronomy. I did know some things about the universe because I have that great passion about space and astronomy but I learned so many other things.

What I find interesting in Berendzen's approach is that he is not only talking about science facts. He also evoques all the questions and theories that had been known through all centuries from Ancient Greece to present time. He is not only questioning the origin and the substance of the universe but he is also questioning theology matters and human preoccupations. It's both an historical, scientific and philosophic presentation of the big dark sky upon us but also, in one sense, of ourselves.

[Kristin F. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like audiobooks. What can I say? Listening to this book makes me feel smart because it's so dumbed down. I mean, if there was such a thing as dumbed down physics, this would take the cake.

Although if you think about it, it takes a really smart guy to make physics understandable and interesting to ordinary folks like me.

It's a good primer for meatier things, anyway.

MMMmmm... Meat and cakes.

[Tom Schulte · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great, warm and encomapssing delivery about the history of physics from Greek thought to Galileo, and Newton to Einstein. Then, we get the astronomy from ancient astrology to the possiblity of wormholes and interstellar communication in future millenia. The author never talks down to the listener and no more than a high school education is required to understand what is delivered by this avuncular and erudite teacher.

[Mike Stephens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have "Pulp Physics" on Audiobooks & it is the most fascinating story I've ever read! It is an introductory story of Astronomy along with the history of how this branch of science begin & up to present day. Many historical scientists are mentioned as are their theories. If science was taught this way in school I believe more students would enjoy learning!!! Thank u Dr. For your informative book!!!

[Maria Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first audio book I ever listened to, downloaded from iTunes rather than on cassettes. Very interesting material. Berendzen talks about physics and astronomy in a straightforward way that even a non-science geek can understand.

[Brandon Barney · Rating 3 out of 5]

if you're into physics/astronomy and you've got some time on your hands this could be worth your while.

[Borax · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sounds boring....but is easily the most interesting science book I've read all year...and I've read....for some reason.... A lot of science books.

[Brit Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super Mega Awesome. Is this a good review?