Eureka!: What Archimedes Really Meant and 80 Other Key Ideas Explained

Rating:
Summary: Complex ideas explained in laymans terms!
Review: This book in question, i.e., Eureka! : What Archimedes Really Meant and 80 Other Key Ideas Explained by Michael Macrone, Tom Lulevitch (Illustrator) , can be considered to be a god send. In this book, the author is able to in simple, laymans terms explain complex ideas such as the tabula rasa, the idea that "god is dead" and the social contract. The book has a very pleasing font and it is therefore easy on the eye. Highly Recommended.

Rating:
Summary: A Must-Have for your Book Shelf
Review: This book is incredibly well written--clear and concise despite it's broad subject matter.

This book will provide you with the groundwork that any educated adult will need to summarize the most important ideas that humanity has labored on, ideas that developed and improved our existence, our world and our understanding of these.

Each idea is described in simple yet thorough terms, with all the supporting facts and all of the opposing facts. Truly an unbiased presentation of the ideas that have shaped scientific and philosophical history.

I used this as a spring board for additional reading; when I find a philosophical idea or a scientific precept that interests me, I can seek a more in-depth book about it. After reading the summary of it's important precedents and effects as well as its source and descendent ideas, I have the foundation to pursue more difficult text on the subject(or hold my own in a casual conversation with other educated persons).

Also, the short chapters that each encompass a single great idea are great for a "one-a-day" style reading, each five or ten minutes long. The result is that you get a daily dose of thought-provoking ideas and perspectives on life whcih you can then devote a day of all your idle time to. A real opportunity for intellectual and spiritual growth.

This is definitely a book to read and re-read, to ponder and enjoy, to encourage further exploration, and to prepare you for day to day conversation at any Ivey League lunch table.