The Meaning of It All: Thoughts of a Citizen-Scientist

Richard Feynman always had a clear way of expressing what obviously is a lot happening in his brain. One of my favorite reads albeit short. More to read!

Any Feinman book is worth it.

I had to read this for a physics class. I didn't think I would enjoy it but it was actually quite interesting, but I only gave it 4 stars because some of the information seems a bit dated. For example the US/Russia conflict. Other than that though it was very informative.

This is a rare gem. Triple distilled, top shelf. Feynman is humble, audacious, curious and extremely intelligent. No other book has had such a profound effect on my life.

I've always enjoyed Richard Feynman's works, lectures, and insights. However, these three lectures offer mixed results with the first lecture being the best. Unfortunately, the last two become less valuable with the last and longest lecture being more convoluted, dated, and by his own admission, a poorly prepared jumble of reactions to different topics relevant at the time. Still, with skillful prospecting, there are many wonderful gems scattered in these three lectures, especially the first and to some degree the second. Perhaps the best parts of these lectures is Feynman's no-nonsense and direct approach to key principles of scientific processes and discovery, emphasizing how much more we must learn than we already know. Perhaps his best illustration of the scientific method is that of a sieve that keeps getting smaller to filter out bad theories and wrong conclusions. He describes how scientists must always be doubters always questioning results and truly accepting the uncertainty of all research. Included too are some of his ethical perspectives on the misuse of science or dystopian controls of government over scientific endeavors, demanding specific outcomes without open scientific exploration. Although this short collection can be read in a single sitting, I suggest a more extended and deliberate study to examine the meanings and implications of Feynman's reasoned perspectives. Although I appreciated Audible's narration support for an initial preview and exploration, it was not appropriate for more indepth analysis. Written for general audiences, these lectures offer stark reminders to all serious scientists and seekers of truth.

As always, Professor Feynman writes with humor and deep insight. While the lectures that make up this book were given in 1963, they are very relevant for the current conflict between religion and science. The titles of the three lectures tell it all - Uncertainty of Science, Uncertainty of Values, and This Unscientific Age. Science is uncertain and that is its great strength. It must be uncertain to accept new ideas. In contrast, any belief system based on faith must be certain in its beliefs. This is not to say that there is no place for religion. Science says nothing about morality or ethical behavior- subjects better left to religion. The last lecture focuses on our unscientific age, with examples of unscientific thinking and how this leads to erroneous conclusions, which are unfortunately widely accepted. This is a short book, so it is better to read it for yourself than to get my take on it. If you read it, I am sure that, regardless of your preconceived bias (in favor of science or religion), it will get you thinking; Feynman always does.

Some other reviewers have been negative because they were looking for more hard science. I think this is unfair, as the title and description accurately convey that this thin volume addresses the role of science in society. More specifically, they are the thoughts of a single scientist who was a Nobel laureate in physics and true renaissance man. True, this is no more than a transcript of three lectures given on the subject in 1963. The conversational style and historical context are marked, but the incisive brilliance of his thinking shines through. HIs central plea to “embrace uncertainty” is profound and constructive, especially in these and any other challenging times. Even if you are a scientist, and especially if you aren’t, reading it will help you make better sense of the world.

These speeches were made in 1966. Feynman flagged a lot of the ills that are de-railing Democracy, America, and planet Earth today. Science can’t save us if we refuse to listen to it.

This book has been bedtime stories in my family for about 15 years. Read it aloud to the kids in your household. Also good for reading to them while they do dishes. It keeps them from complaining and you get some deep thoughts into them.

Muito bommm. Fácil leitura. Entendimento tranquilo. Linguagem simples. Um livro obrigatório a quem se procura lições não só académicas mas pra vida.

Gave away my copy, but felt the need to replace it. Very good value.

Ein sehr interessantes Buch von einem großartigen Wissenschaftler mit sehr günstigen Preis. Die Wahre ist genauso wie beschrieben und die Lieferung ist schnell. Ich bin damit sehr zufrieden.

Interesting and amusing, it reflects upon many things about science, politics and life in general. I would reccomend it to young people