Publishers Weekly
★ 08/19/2024
In this mind-bending inquiry, Johnson (Constellations for Kids), an astronomy professor at the University of Virginia, investigates unanswered questions about the universe. Surveying theories of “what caused the Big Bang,” Johnson explains that some scientists have proposed our universe was “created inside of a supermassive black hole formed in a parent universe,” while others, following the precepts of string theory, suggest our universe may have arisen from the collision of other universes suspended in a higher dimension. The difficulty of proving such theories means scientists must often settle for ruling out alternatives, Johnson writes, explaining that physicists no longer think neutrinos or black holes could constitute dark matter because calculations have revealed neither are abundant enough to account for dark matter’s gravitational effects. (The most likely culprits include hypothetical particles of gravitational energy capable of moving between dimensions.) Elsewhere, she discusses how debates over whether the laws of nature “could not have been otherwise” raise thorny metaphysical questions about free will. Heady ideas jump off nearly every page, and Johnson has a talent for describing them in breezy, conversational prose. This is perfect for anyone who enjoyed Astrophysics for People in a Hurry. (Oct.)
From the Publisher
A mind-bending inquiry… Heady ideas jump off nearly every page, and Johnson has a talent for describing them in breezy, conversational prose. This is perfect for anyone who enjoyed Astrophysics for People in a Hurry.”—Publishers Weekly
“A delightful conversation with a brilliant explorer of the magic of our universe—how we found out, how she found out, what it means for us all, and above all, what we really don’t know or can’t possibly know, except maybe sometimes. Physics, astronomy, metaphysics, origin of life, extraterrestrials, all with wicked humor. You won’t forget this one!”—John Mather, Nobel laureate
"Johnson takes us on a delightful journey through all the big questions that modern astronomy and cosmology evoke. Her refreshing humility recognizes that reason and experiment alone cannot adequately address all aspects of the cosmos and our existence—those pinnacles where science, religion, and philosophy converge.”—Jennifer Wiseman, astrophysicist and Director Emeritus, American Association for the Advancement of Science Program of Dialogue on Science, Ethics, and Religion
“This book is tremendous. Johnson asks all the big questions. Are we alone in the universe? What is the meaning of time? Are there hidden dimensions? Johnson is always accurate and never dumbs down, yet her writing is so smooth, so light, that it’s never hard to follow. If you want to tickle your imagination with all the stuff we still don’t know, read this book!”—Antonio Padilla, author of Fantastic Numbers and Where to Find Them
“This groundbreaking book takes the reader on an adventure that explores the questions many scientists are afraid to ask. It will stand as a roadmap for the future of our field.”—Stephon Solomon Alexander, author of The Jazz of Physics
