Here we have a book on science that is for the budding scientist; not because it is incredibly detailed and full of equations and theorems; rather because it takes science and throws in personality. It follows cosmologists and physicists into their ‘normal’ lives and lets us see how it is to be a scientist trying to understand the way the world works.
Lonely Hearts of the Cosmos is about cosmology and how different scientists have tried to discover the truth of the beginning of the universe. We are introduced to Allan Sandage, purported by the author Dennis Overbye to be the Father of Cosmology, Edwin Hubble, Stephen Hawking and many many more. Each is shown standing in his own light and walking along his own path toward knowledge. Along the way the characters meet, argue and compromise, advance alone and meet again.
The writing is smooth and light on technical jargon. Though we learn much about the concepts of cosmology and the picture of the early universe, we do not see proof in the form of equations or postulates. But don’t expect to have an easy ride. You’ll still learn about Superstrings, Black holes and quantum theory, dark matter and differing views as to the beginning of the universe. But unlike the traditional science book, you’ll be carried along the arguments. You’ll stand behind Sandage in his bomber jacket, or Hubble with his air of grandeur. You’ll feel so much a part of the fight that you’ll stomp your foot down and put your own two cents in. Before you do though, finish your research. If there is one thing to carry away from this book, it is this: Cosmologists, though they may study the complexities of the universe, are as simple-minded as most other people. They don’t like to be wrong and will argue their points until the universe ends.