We are all Stardust: scientists who shaped our world talk about their work, their lives, and what they still want to know

Description

World-leading natural and social scientists shed light on their discoveries and lives in conversation with an award-winning science writer. When acclaimed science writer Stefan Klein asks Nobel Prize - winning chemist Roald Hoffmann what sets scientists apart, Hoffmann says, 'First and foremost, curiosity.' In this collection of intimate conversations with 19 of the world's best-known scientists, Klein lets us listen in as today's leading minds reveal what they still hope to discover - and how their paradigm-changing work entwines with their lives outside the lab. From the sports car that physicist Steven Weinberg says helped him on his quest for 'the theory of everything' to the jazz musicians who gave psychologist Alison Gopnik new insight into raising children, scientists explain how they find inspiration everywhere. Hear from- evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins on selfishness; anthropologist Sarah Hrdy on motherhood; primatologist Jane Goodall on animal behaviour; neuroscientist V. S. Ramachandran on consciousness; geographer Jared Diamond on chance in history; And other luminaries!

Stefan Klein, PhD, has studied physics and analytical philosophy and holds a doctorate in biophysics. After several years as an academic researcher, he turned to writing about science for a general audience. From 1996 to 1999 he was an editor at Der Spiegel, Germany's leading news magazine, and in 1998 he won the prestigious Georg von Holtzbrinck Prize for Science Journalism. Today Klein is recognised as one of Europe's most influential science writers and journalists. His interviews with the world's leading scientists are a regular feature in Germany's Zeit magazine. His books, which have been translated into more than 25 languages, include the #1 international bestseller The Science of Happiness, The Secret Pulse of Time, Survival of the Nicest, and Leonardo's Legacy. A frequent speaker and university guest lecturer, he lives with his family in Berlin.

"The dazzling clutch of scientific minds caught in mid-thought here makes for a read that provokes thought... Delights abound.;- Nature;;"An exceedingly welcome volume that will expose readers to all manner of topics that are likely new to them in a manner that focuses first on the lively personalities of the scientists, while slowly diving into their work. Surprises abound... and the book's diversionary aspect can not be overrated. Truly enjoyable.";- Booklist;;"Strongly recommended for biography readers and science enthusiasts who want to take a look at what events have shaped the lives of influential scientists, and how their scientific discoveries have changed the way they see the world.";- Universe Today