A fortunate universe : life in a finely tuned cosmos / Geraint F. Lewis (University of Sydney), Luke A. Barnes (University of Sydney) ; foreword by Brian Schmidt (Australian National University).

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Lewis, Geraint F., author.

Barnes, Luke A., 1983- author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Pattern formation (Physical sciences).

Pattern formation (Biology).

Life--Origin.

Life.

Cosmology--Philosophy.

Cosmology.

Universe.

Physical Description:

xvii, 373 pages : illustrations ; 24 cm

Place of Publication:

Cambridge, United Kingdom : Cambridge University Press, 2016.

Summary:

"Over the last 40 years, scientists have uncovered evidence that if the Universe had been forged with even slightly different properties, life as we know it--and life as we can imagine it--would be impossible. Join us on a journey through how we understand the Universe, from its most basic particles and forces, to planets, stars and galaxies, and back through cosmic history to the birth of the cosmos. Conflicting notions about our place in the Universe are defined, defended and critiqued from scientific, philosophical and religious viewpoints. The authors' engaging and witty style addresses what fine-tuning might mean for the future of physics and the search for the ultimate laws of nature. Tackling difficult questions and providing thought-provoking answers, this volumes challenges us to consider our place in the cosmos, regardless of our initial convictions."--Dust jacket.

Contents:

A conversation on fine-tuning

I'm only human!

Can you feel the force?

Energy and entropy

The universe is expanding

All bets are off!

A dozen (or so) reactions to fine-tuning

A conversation continued.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 358-369) and index.

ISBN:

9781107156616

1107156610

OCLC:

965118938