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World-leading natural and social scientists shed light on their discoveries and lives in conversation with an award-winning science writer
When acclaimed science writer Stefan Klein asks Nobel Prize– winning chemist Roald Hoffmann what sets scientists apart, Hoffmann says, “First and foremost, curiosity.” In this collection of intimate conversations with 19 of the world’s best-known scientists (including three Nobel Laureates), Klein lets us listen in as today’s leading minds reveal what they still hope to discover—and how their paradigm-changing work entwines with their lives outside the lab.
From the sports car that physicist Steven Weinberg says helped him on his quest for “the theory of everything” to the jazz musicians who gave psychologist Alison Gopnik new insight into raising children, scientists explain how they find inspiration everywhere.
Hear from:
- Evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins on selfishness
- Anthropologist Sarah Hrdy on motherhood
- Primatologist Jane Goodall on animal behavior
- Neuroscientist V. S. Ramachandran on consciousness
- Geographer Jared Diamond on chance in history
- And other luminaries!
“[Klein’s] interview subjects explain their science clearly and display their passions vividly, making this an engaging introduction to a great breadth of scientific topics.”—American Scientist
“An exceedingly welcome volume that will expose readers to all manner of topics that are likely new to them in a manner that focuses first on the lively personalities of the scientists, while slowly diving into their work. Surprises abound. . . and the book’s diversionary aspect can not be overrated. Truly enjoyable.”—Booklist
“This work will enthrall popular science lovers and STEM enthusiasts.”—Library Journal
“Strongly recommended for biography readers and science enthusiasts who want to take a look at what events have shaped the lives of influential scientists, and how their scientific discoveries have changed the way they see the world.”—Universe Today
