How the Laser Happened: Adventures of a Scientist

Rating:
Summary: From a fellow Paladin
Review: This relatively short book is filled with interesting stories, people and events--not all of which are about physics or science. In fact, this is an enjoyable book for even the most determined liberal arts type who normally might avoid reading about physics. In fact, Dr. Townes seems to approach science and life with a "liberal arts" attitude: curious about everything and more than a little adventurous. He challenges readers to look under all the rocks for the excitement and learning to be found there. Read it for enjoyment and edification (a rare combination these days).

Rating:
Summary: From a fellow Paladin
Review: This relatively short book is filled with interesting stories, people and events--not all of which are about physics or science. In fact, this is an enjoyable book for even the most determined liberal arts type who normally might avoid reading about physics. In fact, Dr. Townes seems to approach science and life with a "liberal arts" attitude: curious about everything and more than a little adventurous. He challenges readers to look under all the rocks for the excitement and learning to be found there. Read it for enjoyment and edification (a rare combination these days).

Rating:
Summary: Well done!
Review: Townes' wonderful auto-biography gives us great insight into the mind of one of the 20th Centuries most important scientists. He mixes science with his personal story creating a wonderful tale of how he made the LASER work, and how the LASER actually does work. Townes includes a tremendous amount information about the technicalities of being a great scientist. From government panels to patent disputes--he writes about it all!

Rating:
Summary: Well done!
Review: Townes' wonderful auto-biography gives us great insight into the mind of one of the 20th Centuries most important scientists. He mixes science with his personal story creating a wonderful tale of how he made the LASER work, and how the LASER actually does work. Townes includes a tremendous amount information about the technicalities of being a great scientist. From government panels to patent disputes--he writes about it all!