In a Flight of Starlings
The Wonder of Complex Systems
Giorgio Parisi author Simon Carnell translator
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Penguin Books Ltd
Published:11th Jul '23
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- Paperback£10.99(9781802060881)
This engaging exploration by Giorgio Parisi reveals how observing starlings can illuminate complex systems, making science relatable and inspiring.
From the acclaimed 2021 Nobel Prize winner in Physics, In a Flight of Starlings takes readers on a remarkable journey into the practice of groundbreaking science. Giorgio Parisi, known for his scientific creativity and originality, shares not just his knowledge but also his experiences, making the complex world of science accessible and engaging. Through his witty and charming narrative, readers will feel as though they have made a delightful new friend in Parisi.
The book begins with an exploration of the intricate flight patterns of starlings, illustrating how observing these birds can unlock the secrets of complex systems. Parisi's work transcends traditional boundaries, connecting physics with various fields of study and emphasizing the significance of serendipity in scientific discovery. He highlights the interconnectedness of everything from atoms to planets, demonstrating how understanding these relationships can lead to greater insights into our world.
In a Flight of Starlings serves as both an elegant scientific treatise and a thrilling intellectual journey. Parisi invites readers to appreciate the complexity surrounding us, from climate change to financial systems, offering a unique perspective on finding order in chaos. By removing science from the confines of the laboratory and placing it in everyday life, he encourages us to cultivate wonder and curiosity about the world around us.
The man who looked at birds and grasped the secrets of the universe ... Read this, and you will get at least a frisson of what a top-flight career in physics might feel like * Daily Telegraph *
The Italian physicist puts the fiendishly tricky theory of complex systems in terms of birds and bus rides ... aims to make his branch of science accessible to all * Observer *
Giorgio Parisi is remarkably flexible and ingenious... In a Flight of Starlings is a compelling introduction to how modern researchers think about complex systems, enlivened by autobiographical anecdote and reflection on the processes of science -- Sean Carroll * The Times Literary Supplement *
Parisi tells of his adventures in thinking in this alarmingly brilliant, witty and brief book -- Robert Fox * Evening Standard *
In a Flight of Starlings offers a glimpse into scientific discovery ... a forceful argument for the value of scientific literacy at a time when it's increasingly being challenged by misinformation ... Parisi's book is a step toward making physics feel more accessible -- Andrew DeMillo * Independent *
An interesting collection of essays reflecting on Parisi's long career in science . . . The scientific explanations are admirably lucid * The Wall Street Journal *
An erudite contemplation on both science and the process of doing science. And a joy to read -- Marcus Chown * Prospect Magazine *
In this delightful and deeply thoughtful book, Giorgio Parisi weaves a tapestry of experiences and ideas that connects disciplines and prepares us to appreciate the beauty, importance, and cultural value of science -- Frances Arnold, winner of the Nobel Prize
An extraordinary scientist -- Carlo Rovelli, author of Seven Brief Lessons on Physics
Giorgio Parisi is renowned for his scientific creativity, originality, and power. In this exhilarating little book, he shows his human side, too. By its end, readers will feel they've made a charming, witty new friend. -- Frank Wilczek, winner of the Nobel Prize and author of Fundamentals
ISBN: 9780241587485
Dimensions: 220mm x 142mm x 22mm
Weight: 260g
144 pages