The Universe

There are many books on cosmology aimed at a general audience. Unlike the majority, The Universe – Order Without Design explains how cosmological theories work, where they came from and, more importantly, why they might be wrong.

Calle starts by examining the ingredients that make up cosmology: particle physics, relativity and quantum mechanics. The basics are mostly brought across using simple analogies rather than strings of equations – a pencil is used to demonstrate symmetry breaking, for instance. One or two examples are rather long-winded in places. The author then takes a look at the cosmological theories of previous eras and how they have since been superseded, leaving you with a good idea of how this area of research is progressing.

Refreshingly, the scientists’ lives are discussed. For example, we learn about George Gamow, who escaped to the US from Russia in 1934 and showed how hydrogen and helium could be made from the Big Bang. The overall theme is one of creation and whether our Universe was an accident or the will of a supernatural force.

A must-read if you’re at all interested in this far-reaching subject.

Paul Abel