Structure

The book is structured primarily by topic, and to some extent chronologically. Relativity and quantum physics are the elementary components of what Rovelli presents, and they come first. He then describes further exploration based on these two theories, including astrophysics, particle physics, and quantum gravity. The last lesson explores far-out elements of thermodynamics. Both historically and conceptually, the later theories are based on the earlier ones. And the final chapter is a philosophical reflection upon this physics.

As the title promises, Rovelli gives brief lessons. He has created very condensed overviews, leaving some more detailed aspects that are perhaps particularly interesting or insightful. To this he also adds some historical and anecdotal information for variety. Rovelli alternates between explaining the theories and giving conceptual context, adding historical information, or exploring related philosophical enquiry. Though the book is written for a general audience, there are times when he...