''In Search of Schrödinger's Cat: Quantum Physics and Reality'' is a 1984 book on

quantum theory Quantum theory may refer to: Science *Quantum mechanics, a major field of physics *Old quantum theory, predating modern quantum mechanics * Quantum field theory, an area of quantum mechanics that includes: ** Quantum electrodynamics ** Quantum ...

by the physicist

John Gribbin John R. Gribbin (born 19 March 1946) is a British science writer, an astrophysicist, and a visiting fellow in astronomy at the University of Sussex. His writings include quantum physics, human evolution, climate change, global warming, the orig ...

, discussing in layman's terms its logic and many interpretations.

Summary

Gribbin explains the body of evidence leading up to the development of quantum physics and summarises the historical context in which it occurred. He explores in detail the mysteries surrounding quantum physics and the implications of the theory. Throughout the book, Gribbin refers to a body of experimental evidence to support the theory and to aid the reader's understanding. He also uses

thought experiment A thought experiment is a hypothetical situation in which a hypothesis, theory, or principle is laid out for the purpose of thinking through its consequences. History The ancient Greek ''deiknymi'' (), or thought experiment, "was the most anc ...

s to help the reader understand the crucial concepts and interpretations of quantum physics, including of course

Schrödinger's cat In quantum mechanics, Schrödinger's cat is a thought experiment that illustrates a paradox of quantum superposition. In the thought experiment, a hypothetical cat may be considered simultaneously both alive and dead, while it is unobserved in ...

. Finally, Gribbin explores the philosophical implications of the theory, and leaves the reader with loose ends.

Sequel

In the sequel to this book, '' Schrödinger's Kittens and the Search for Reality'' (1995), Gribbin tries to tie these loose ends together with his interpretation of string theory.

References

1984 non-fiction books American non-fiction books Books by John Gribbin English-language books Popular physics books Random House books Schrödinger's cat {{physics-book-stub