Product Description

After a quarter of a century in print, Capra's groundbreaking work still challenges and inspires. This updated edition of The Tao of Physics includes a new preface and afterword in which the author reviews the developments of the twenty-five years since the book's first publication, discusses criticisms the book has received, and examines future possibilities for a new scientific world.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #16169 in Books
• Published on: 2000-01-04
• Released on: 2000-01-04
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 366 pages

Amazon.com
First published in 1975, The Tao of Physics rode the wave of fascination in exotic East Asian philosophies. Decades later, it still stands up to scrutiny, explicating not only Eastern philosophies but also how modern physics forces us into conceptions that have remarkable parallels. Covering over 3,000 years of widely divergent traditions across Asia, Capra can't help but blur lines in his generalizations. But the big picture is enough to see the value in them of experiential knowledge, the limits of objectivity, the absence of foundational matter, the interrelation of all things and events, and the fact that process is primary, not things. Capra finds the same notions in modern physics. Those approaching Eastern thought from a background of Western science will find reliable introductions here to Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism and learn how commonalities among these systems of thought can offer a sort of philosophical underpinning for modern science. And those approaching modern physics from a background in Eastern mysticism will find precise yet comprehensible descriptions of a Western science that may reinvigorate a hope in the positive potential of scientific knowledge. Whatever your background, The Tao of Physics is a brilliant essay on the meeting of East and West, and on the invaluable possibilities that such a union promises. --Brian Bruya

Review
"A brilliant best-seller. . . . Lucidly analyzes the tenets of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism to show their striking parallels with the latest discoveries in cyclotrons."—New York Magazine



"A pioneering book of real value and wide appeal."—Washington Post

"Fritjof Capra, in The Tao of Physics , seeks . . . an integration of the mathematical world view of modern physics and the mystical visions of Buddha and Krishna. Where others have failed miserably in trying to unite these seemingly different world views, Capra, a high-energy theorist, has succeeded admirably. I strongly recommend the book to both layman and scientist."—V. N. Mansfield, Physics Today



"I have been reading the book with amazement and the greatest interest, recommending it to everyone I meet, and as often as possible, in my lectures. I think [Capra has] done a magnificent and extremely important job."—Joseph Campbell

About the Author
Fritjof Capra has done research in theoretical high-energy physics at the University of Paris; the University of California; Stanford University; and Imperial College, London. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Vienna. He is currently a lecturer at the University of California, Berkeley.

Customer Reviews

Metaphysics for the rest of us
Nutshell review - Another book in the meta-physics / quantum physics for the lay-person genre. Lots of interesting ideas and insights into this strange world. Worth a read.

An enlightening experience
From reading Fritjof Capra's remarkable book, I have gained much more respect for physics while also strengthening my understanding of Eastern philosophy.

In his book, Capra urges that physicists realize nature's organic processes instead of explaining these processes in vague and mechanical terms. According to Capra, by Greek definition, "'physics' meant therefore, originally, the endeavor of seeing the essential nature of all things" (p.20). We must create an inner harmony with nature. Indeed, until recently have physicists adopted a more holistic physics rather than the mechanically dense physics of the past. Through their similarities, Capra beautifully demonstrates that science, mathematics, and mysticism are not completely different.

A brief note on the book itself: Capra's style of writing is wonderful and he explains throughly and effectively (he is also very well-researched). Some may find his explanations of physics or Eastern philosophy dense or cumbersome. Nevertheless, Capra makes each chapter intriguing and exciting, especially considering how he demonstrates that each concept is interrelated. Aside from these musings, both the text is in large type face and the diagrams are pleasing to the eyes.

For those who have little background to the subject of modern physics (much like me), do not try to completely and absolutley understand each topic mentioned. You will only become more confused and frustrated. Rather, read each chapter synthetically and with an open mind. The knowledge will build gradually. That is what Capra would want. For those who (especially) have a background in modern physics, allow the book to merely supplement your practice. Approach the book as if you have never explored the topic and you will perhaps gain a refreshed perspective.

Altogether, I highly recommend the book. It appeals to all who wish to learn about topics so unique and relevant. You may also benefit intellectually. Who knows?

In the words of Joseph Campbell on praising the book,
"I think Capra has done a magnificent and extremely important job".

The Tao of Physics
I have read and reread this book several times it helps the layman to understand the principles of quantum physics in simple yet adecuate ways.
Very good
Hilda Pomares