BEYOND THE QUANTUM

Rating:
Summary: Thoughtful Guide to the "New" Physics
Review: Having previously read Talbot's Holographic Universe, I just happened upon a used copy of this now out-of-print classic, Beyond the Quantum. This book very clearly and provocatively explores the science and the theoretical implications that are developing in the fields of physics and consciousness. From Bohm to Sheldrake to the Eastern mystics, Talbot has written an excellent overview of this mind-expanding field of study. In 2004 this book still seems fresh with ideas and insight, and explains things clearly for a general audience, not just those with a scientific background.

Rating:
Summary: You can never go back, once you're read this book.
Review: This book is a carefully organized and well-explained safari into the amazing world of quantum physics. I would sum this book up by quoting Talbot himself: "It is one of the great ironies of our century that as reductionist biologists were slowly trying to purge all mention of consciousness from their understanding of neurophysiological processes, physicists were at the same time uncovering compelling evidence that the mind is not only necessary, but may be integral to our understanding of the physical universe."

This book is no mere excursion into some otherworldly fantasy. When you finish this book, your world, although not radically changed, is undeniably altered. In one example, Talbot uses the familiar illustrations of a woman, a blocky, diffuse illustration that's not at first obvious. Turn the page, and the reader sees the illustration in more detail-- it is a woman. Turn the page back, and the formerly incomprehensible image can be clearly seen to be that same woman. This book will affect the reader's reality the same way. Close the book, and the reader can't help but think of the world on slightly different terms.

Of all the books in my library, this book is easily the best example of an author taking a wide range of potentially incomprehensible subjects and making them clearly understandable. Talbot writes with the conviction of someone who is himself as interested in his subject as the reader is, but his approach nonetheless remains objective throughout. I highly recommend it.

Rating:
Summary: Beyond good reading!
Review: This is an incredible book. Easy to read and still fresh and informative. With over 200 books and tapes in my library, this one sets a fundamental standard connecting the metaphysical with the scientific. This kind of connection is just a metaphor for what the world needs more of - a holistic, open-minded grasp of our inner and outer world(s). All the good-bad left-right black-white differences (that seem so important) melt when the insights in this book show that we are at the doorstep of Star Trek-level (and beyond) possibilities. Enjoy!