Amazon.com Review At an Esalen Institute meeting in 1976, tai chi master Al Huang said that the Chinese word for physics is Wu Li, "patterns of organic energy." Journalist Gary Zukav and the others present developed the idea of physics as the dance of the Wu Li Masters--the teachers of physical essence. Zukav explains the concept further:
The Wu Li Master dances with his student. The Wu Li Master does not teach, but the student learns. The Wu Li Master always begins at the center, the heart of the matter.... This book deals not with knowledge, which is always past tense anyway, but with imagination, which is physics come alive, which is Wu Li.... Most people believe that physicists are explaining the world. Some physicists even believe that, but the Wu Li Masters know that they are only dancing with it.
The "new physics" of Zukav's 1979 book comprises quantum theory, particle physics, and relativity. Even as these theories age they haven't percolated all that far into the collective consciousness; they're too far removed from mundane human experience not to need introduction. The Dancing Wu Li Masters remains an engaging, accessible way to meet the most profound and mind-altering insights of 20th-century science. --Mary Ellen Curtin
Product Description
With its unique combination of depth, clarity, and humor that has enchanted millions, this beloved classic by bestselling author Gary Zukav opens the fascinating world of quantum physics to readers with no mathematical or technical background. "Wu Li" is the Chinese phrase for physics. It means "patterns of organic energy," but it also means "nonsense," "my way," "I clutch my ideas," and "enlightenment." These captivating ideas frame Zukav's evocative exploration of quantum mechanics and relativity theory. Delightfully easy to read, The Dancing Wu Li Masters illuminates the compelling powers at the core of all we know.
Entertaining clap-trapAugust 31, 2008 I'll qualify the rating: It's one star if you want some entertainment, zero stars if you think you'll gain anything of scientific value.
This book is an interesting and intellectually seductive waste of time - or, should I say space-time continuum?
The entire discourse is a series of circuitous "logic", like chains of circles forming spheres forming circles. The irony is that Zukav says "...going around in a circle is one kind of dead end." I agree.
If you want to learn about particle physics...July 30, 2008 Particle physics theory is more amazing and fantastic then I could have imagined. The depth of our understanding of the atom and particles are both beautiful and awesomely powerful.
When I was young (25) I did not know that I could understand particle physics or quantum mechanics. Worrying about my GPA I wouldn't even attempt it in college. But I read this book. Loved it. Read ten or so "real" books on quantum mechanics, string, astrophysics, then went back to learn classically physics. And learned how the equations work.
If you want to know particle physics for fun, I recommend this book. The book shows you many equations, but you don't have to work them. There will be plenty of time for that later, if you care to.
The author uses many analogies to Buddhism. They are helpful to some like me. For my generation, Buddhism was highly regarded. I learned how to meditate, otherwise the stories are nice but not necessarily true. They help illustrate points in the book. They help explain the science, but they are not science themselves. Don't worry about them if they don't appeal to you.
After learning about theoretical particle physics I read books on experimental physics and how particle accelerators and detectors work. I wanted to know exactly how the scientists knew what they said they knew. The physics in the book are provable, not everything has been proven, not all theories will be shown to be correct. Many of them are true, and have been proven before and after the book was written.
Quantum Physics PrimerJuly 27, 2008 This is the best of several books that I have read on quantum mechanics and related topics for the non-physicist. The style is very engaging. No wonder this book has become a classic in the field.
Good readJuly 5, 2008 Nutshell review - a fun introduction and overview of the mysteries and quirks of the world of quantum physics. A good read written in a easy to understand style for us laymen.
Voodoo PhysicsJune 30, 2008 0 out of 1 found this review helpful
Talk about gluten for punishment I read this twice. I swear the person that wrote this does not have a TV which expels his lace of contemporary physics let alone any depth. There are references to the "New Physics" is that like "New Age"?
90% of the matter must be missing from this book. Or how else can he take physics out of context and make such fantastic leaps to religions that he knows little of. He even twists the religion around to serve some unknown purpose.
Many people say they did not understand physics until this book; Surprises, you still do not. You now know what Zukav wished physics was. Take anti-mater for instants that does not mean the opposite of mater. And the relationship between particles has no correlation with the relationship of dogs and cats.
At least get it straight before mixing it up. Try reading some of these: "The Ascent of Man by Jacob Bronowski". The book available everywhere as are the DVD's.
The Upanishads by Eknath Easwaran (Editor), Michael N. Nagler (Photographer)
Or just about any mainstream material on physics and religion.
Then if you still want to mix worlds into one read someone saner: The Tao of Physics: An Exploration of the Parallels Between Modern Physics and Eastern Mysticism by Fritjof Capra.
