In this collection of lectures that Richard Feynman originally gave in 1963, unpublished during his lifetime, the Nobel Prize-winning physicist discusses several of the ultimate questions of science. What is the nature of the tension between science and religious faith? Why does uncertainty play such a crucial role in the scientific imagination? Is this really a scientific age?

Marked by Feynman's characteristic combination of rationality and humor, these lectures provide an intimate glimpse at the man behind the legend. He says at the start of his final lecture, "I dedicate this lecture to showing what ridiculous conclusions and rare statements such a man as myself can make." Rare, perhaps, and irreverent, sure. But ridiculous? Not even close.

Listening Length

2 hours and 50 minutes
Author

Richard P. Feynman
Narrator

Raymond Todd
Audible release date

July 18, 2007
Language

English
Publisher

Blackstone Audio, Inc.
ASIN

B000TYDQZS
Version

Unabridged
Program Type

Audiobook
See all details

Read & Listen

Switch between reading the Kindle book & listening to the Audible narration with Whispersync for Voice.
Get the Audible audiobook for the reduced price of $3.99 after you buy the Kindle book.

Enjoy this audiobook free + more

Click above to get a preview of our newest plan - unlimited listening to select audiobooks, Audible Originals, and podcasts.
You will get an email reminder before your trial ends.
$7.95 a month after 30 days. Cancel online anytime.

Learn more about Membership

List Price: ~~$13.96~~

You Save: $4.01 (29%)

By completing your purchase, you agree to Audible’s Conditions Of Use

Sold and delivered by Audible, an Amazon company

People who viewed this also viewed

Page 1 of 1Start OverPage 1 of 1

People who bought this also bought

Page 1 of 1Start OverPage 1 of 1

Related to this topic

Page 1 of 1Start OverPage 1 of 1

Product details

Listening Length	2 hours and 50 minutes
Author	Richard P. Feynman
Narrator	Raymond Todd
Whispersync for Voice	Ready
Audible.com Release Date	July 18, 2007
Publisher	Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Program Type	Audiobook
Version	Unabridged
Language	English
ASIN	B000TYDQZS
Best Sellers Rank	#168,182 in Audible Books & Originals (See Top 100 in Audible Books & Originals) #256 in Philosophy & Science #434 in Biographies of Science & Technology Leaders #1,976 in Scientist Biographies

Customer reviews

5 star		75%
4 star		14%
3 star		8%
2 star		2%
1 star		2%

How customer reviews and ratings work

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.

Ken Kardash

Timelessly clear thinking

Reviewed in the United States on June 26, 2017

Verified Purchase

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.

16 people found this helpful

Helpful

Mindo'ermatter

Some Good Insights Hidden in a 1950s Contexts

Reviewed in the United States on April 15, 2021

Verified Purchase

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.

Helpful

Cooter McCoy

A must read for all

Reviewed in the United States on June 28, 2020

Verified Purchase

If we're all standing on the shoulders of giants, then there're no wider/stronger shoulders than those of Mr. Feynman. A mandatory read for all who're seeking meaning of it all - what's there beyond the born-live-die cycle? It may not answer it all, but it'll surely give you the right vector for your thoughts.

2 people found this helpful

Helpful

mlp

really like his past work

Reviewed in the United States on February 14, 2019

Verified Purchase

He was a great man in Physics and had a very interesting and exciting life. His understanding or insight has been very useful even to todays students in the field or anyone that is interested in an exciting or interesting life. While, I have not read this book yet, his past work has been a great read and there has been much talk about this being equally good. Therefore, it was a great addition to my books and I am looking forward to reading it some day.

2 people found this helpful

Helpful

Gail Moore

brilliant

Reviewed in the United States on December 17, 2021

Verified Purchase

I really enjoy his writing, and although physics is beyond me, his ability to communicate, and the man’s remarkable life and his remarkable accomplishments are addictive reading. Astonishing human being

Helpful

Metallurgist

Important reading for anyone interested in science and religion

Reviewed in the United States on January 21, 2007

Verified Purchase

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.

15 people found this helpful

Helpful

Terrifically written by R. Feynman, and so well ...

Reviewed in the United States on October 21, 2017

Verified Purchase

Terrifically written by R. Feynman, and so well thought through, on subjects that have many opinions. I agree with Feynman's analysis...along with his "tongue-in-cheek" approach, in his discussions.

2 people found this helpful

Helpful

James G.

Dr. Richard Feynman's reflections on science

Reviewed in the United States on February 1, 2021

Verified Purchase

Item arrived quickly, undamaged, exactly as advertised - a good read - Thanks !

Helpful

Top reviews from other countries

Translate all reviews to English

MR A THORPE

An interesting read

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on August 9, 2020

Verified Purchase

It read more like the transcript of the lectures it is from and could be improved by editing.

E DEAS

Just what I wanted.

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on March 22, 2017

Verified Purchase

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

Kindle Customer

Five Stars

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on August 15, 2016

Verified Purchase

Great book written in a very easy to understand manner

Terry Trowbridge

Good for bedtime stories

Reviewed in Canada on January 20, 2021

Verified Purchase

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.

Giovanni

Nice

Reviewed in Italy on March 21, 2018

Verified Purchase

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

Translate review to English

See all reviews

The Meaning of it All: Thoughts of a Citizen-Scientist Audible Audiobook – Unabridged

Read & Listen

Free title with your free trial! $0.00

Buy with 1-Click $9.95

People who viewed this also viewed

People who bought this also bought

Related to this topic

Product details

Customer reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.

Top reviews from other countries

Free title with your free trial!

$0.00

Buy with 1-Click

$9.95