The Cosmic Landscape: String Theory and the Illusion of Intelligent Design.THE COSMIC LANDSCAPE: String Theory string theory, description of elementary particles based on one-dimensional curves, or "strings," instead of point particles. Superstring theory, which is string theory that contains a kind of symmetry known as supersymmetry, shows promise as a way of unifying the four known fundamental forces of nature. and the Illusion of Intelligent Design LEONARD SUSSKIND Widely recognized as the father of string theory, Susskind tackles another idea that's so contentious that it has formed a rift within the physics community and beyond. Susskind's idea, known as the anthropic principle, states that the universe is uniquely structured to allow for the presence of intelligent life. But instead of ascribing this event to the agency of a supreme designer, he credits the universe's structure to an accident of mathematics. Here, Susskind outlines how the laws of physics have created a universe that provides the specific building blocks of life in a structure that's habitable habitable adj. referring to a residence that is safe and can be occupied in reasonable comfort. Although standards vary by region, the premises should be closed in against the weather, provide running water, access to decent toilets and bathing facilities, heating, and electricity. Particularly in multi-dwelling buildings freedom from noxious smells, noise and garbage are included in the standard.. Finally, he argues that pocket universes, each containing its own set of physical laws and properties, probably exist. Little, Brown and Company, 2006, 404 p., b&w illus., hardcover, $24,95, |
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