53 pages • 1 hour read
Chaos: Making a New Science
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Book Brief
352
Book • Nonfiction
1987
Adult
18+ years
1160L
Super Short Summary
Chaos: Making a New Science by James Gleick explores the revolutionary development of chaos theory during the 20th century, detailing its impact on various scientific disciplines. The book examines how small changes in dynamic systems can have profound effects, revealing order within apparent disorder. Featuring profiles of pivotal scientists, the narrative connects breakthroughs in physics, mathematics, ecology, and biology, showcasing the interdisciplinary nature of chaos theory.
Informative
Mysterious
Contemplative
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
41,994 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
James Gleick's Chaos: Making a New Science is widely lauded for its accessible and engaging exploration of the principles of chaos theory. Reviewers praise Gleick's clear explanations and compelling narrative style, making complex scientific concepts understandable to a general audience. However, some critics note occasional oversimplifications and a lack of depth in certain areas. Overall, it's an enlightening and thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Chaos: Making a New Science?
A reader who enjoys Chaos: Making a New Science by James Gleick likely has a keen interest in scientific concepts explained in accessible language, similar to fans of Stephen Hawking's A Brief History of Time or Richard Feynman's Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!. This reader appreciates the intersection of science, mathematics, and the unpredictability of natural systems.
41,994 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Edward Lorenz
Edward Lorenz
A mathematician and meteorologist best known for his development of chaos theory in mathematics and his description of the "butterfly effect," highlighting small changes leading to large consequences.
Stephen Smale
Stephen Smale
A mathematician renowned for his work in dynamical systems and topology, whose study of pendulums and development of the “horseshoe” theory are key focuses in the narrative.
Robert May
Robert May
An Australian scientist whose application of mathematical techniques advanced the field of population biology, contributing to the understanding of ecological and chaotic systems.
Benoit Mandelbrot
Benoit Mandelbrot
A mathematician and polymath known for defining "fractal" geometry, his work on the Mandelbrot set showcases how simple rules can lead to visual complexity.
Mitchell Fiegenbaum
Mitchell Fiegenbaum
A mathematical physicist notable for his research on turbulence and chaos theories, bridging theoretical and experimental mathematics with significant discoveries on strange attractors.
Albert Libchaber
Albert Libchaber
An experimental physicist credited with conducting the first observation of chaos in fluid systems, confirming theoretical predictions through experimental work and recognized for his pioneering research.
Michael Barnsley
Michael Barnsley
A mathematician and researcher known for his work in fractal compression, illustrating that nature organizes itself through fundamental repetitive patterns even within infinite possibilities.
Dynamical Systems Collective, or Chaos Cabal
Dynamical Systems Collective, or Chaos Cabal
A group of young scientists who expanded chaos theory, suggesting that chaos is a form of information and finding repeated patterns within chaotic outputs, highlighting the informational nature of dynamic systems.
352
Book • Nonfiction
1987
Adult
18+ years
1160L
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