Extremely informative but very long.

6/10
Vast in scope and size, this anthology is one of the most illuminating glances into the world of science that I've read. If you read it from back to front expect to get bogged down by certain parts because it's unlikely that all of this will engage you. Most striking is the picture it paints of a 20th century founded upon physics and the hopes of some kind of unification, optimism. A lot of this isn't necessarily about physics/maths and becomes largely about what it meant to be a scientist, complete with contradictory and conflicting views. Evangelists treat science as the purest form of human pursuit but it's increasingly evident that it's often as myopic as any other. I think that's what makes these people so fun to read about.

500.2

Definite "desert island" book contender.

Best collection out there on the subject for both the amateur enthusiast and the seasoned scientist.

Good solid collection of geeky science stuff, I especially enjoy the astronomy section. This isn't a cover to cover read, but when I'm in the mood to read some science articles it doesn't disappoint.