Faster Than The Speed Of Light.

Joao Magueijo

Physical

In Circulation

The idea that the speed of light is a constant - at 186,000 miles per second - is one of the few scientific facts that almost everyone knows. That constant - c- also appears in the most famous of all scientific equations: e=mc2- Yet over the last few years, a small group of highly reputable young physicists have suggested that the central dogma of modern physics may not be an absolute truth - light may have moved faster in the earlier life of the universe, it may still be moving at different speeds elsewhere today.

In telling the story of this heresy, and its gradual journey towards acceptance, Joao Magueijo writes as one of the three central figures in the story, introducing the reader to modern cosmology, to the implications of VSL (variable speed of light) and to the world of physicists. The initial rejection of Magueijo's ideas is beginning to give way to a reluctant acceptance that the young men may have a point - only the next few years will tell the final fate of this 'dangerous' idea.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Variable Speed of Light: Magueijo proposes the theory of Variable Speed of Light (VSL), suggesting that the speed of light may have been much faster in the early universe.

  2. Cosmic Evolution: The book explores the implications of VSL for cosmic evolution, suggesting that the speed of light might have been much higher during the period of cosmic inflation.

  3. Problems with Inflation Theory: Magueijo criticizes the inflationary model of the universe, arguing that it relies on ad hoc assumptions and does not adequately explain certain features of the cosmos.

  4. Alternative Cosmologies: The book presents alternative cosmological models that incorporate VSL, offering new insights into the origin and evolution of the universe.

  5. Testing VSL: Magueijo discusses various experiments and observations that could potentially test the VSL hypothesis, including measurements of the cosmic microwave background and observations of distant galaxies.

  6. Controversy and Criticism: The VSL hypothesis has been met with skepticism and criticism from the scientific community, and the book examines some of the challenges and objections raised against it.

  7. Revolutionary Ideas: Magueijo's work challenges the orthodoxy of modern physics and encourages scientists to reconsider long-held assumptions about the nature of space, time, and the universe.

  8. Interdisciplinary Approach: The book takes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from cosmology, particle physics, and other fields to develop its arguments.

  9. Accessible Writing Style: Despite the complex subject matter, Magueijo writes in a clear and accessible style, making the book suitable for both scientists and general readers interested in cosmology and theoretical physics.

  10. Philosophical Implications: "Faster Than the Speed of Light" raises profound philosophical questions about the nature of reality, the limits of scientific knowledge, and the role of theory in shaping our understanding of the cosmos.

Language English
ISBN-10 0099428083
ISBN-13 9780099428084
No of pages 288
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Arrow Books
Published Date 01 Jan 2004

About Author

Author : Joao Magueijo

2 Books

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