Covered with Deep Mist

The Development of Quantum Gravity (1916-1956)

Dean Rickles author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Oxford University Press

Published:5th Mar '20

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

Covered with Deep Mist cover

The problem of quantum gravity is often viewed as the most pressing unresolved problem of modern physics: our theories of spacetime and matter, described respectively by general relativity (Einstein's theory of gravitation and spacetime) and quantum mechanics (our best theory of matter and the other forces of nature) resist unification. Covered with Deep Mist provides the first book-length treatment of the history of quantum gravity, focusing on its origins and earliest stages of development until the mid-1950s. Readers will be guided through the impacts on the problem of quantum gravity resulting from changes in the two ingredient theories, quantum theory and general relativity, which were themselves still under construction in the years studied. We examine how several of the core approaches of today were formed in an era when the field was highly unfashionable. The book aims to be accessible to a broad range of readers and goes beyond a merely technical examination to include social and cultural factors involved in the changing fortunes of the field. Suitable for both newcomers and seasoned quantum gravity professionals, the book will shine new light on this century-old, unresolved problem.

In spite of almost hundred years of work, quantum gravity remains a mystery. Dean Rickles takes you on a journey through the early years of efforts to quantizing gravity. His book may help to eventually remove the deep mist that covers this theory. It is of great value for scientists and philosophers alike. * Claus Kiefer, Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of Cologne *
Since the early years of the twentieth century, leading physicists have struggled to find some way to combine quantum theory with general relativity. In this thought-provoking study, Dean Rickles charts the early decades of this quest, unearthing forgotten gems and clarifying competing efforts. A fascinating historical study of a still-unfolding intellectual adventure. * David Kaiser, Professor of the History of Science and of Physics, MIT *

ISBN: 9780199602957

Dimensions: 253mm x 175mm x 21mm

Weight: 754g

318 pages