 | Einstein''s Jury: The Race to Test Relativity Subjects: Relativity (Physics); Einstein Albert 1879–1955; Astrophysics -- History -- 20th century; Physics -- History -- 20th century; Astronomy -- History -- 20th century; In prose not readily accessible to the average reader, science writer Crelinsten, who has written radio and film documentaries about Einstein, explores how the theory of relativity was greeted by members of the astronomical community. By focusing on astronomers rather than the theoretical physicists more often associated with Einstein, he offers new insights. Crelinsten presents the surprising fact that virtually all astronomers engaged in crafting the empirical tests of relativity for a period of almost two decades had very little understanding of the theoretical physics and mathematics underlying Einstein's principles. Nonetheless, astronomers from around the world spent years chasing solar eclipses in an attempt to gather data, and each held strong opinions about whether or not Einstein's theory was correct. Crelinsten is best when discussing the attacks on Einstein and his theory, demonstrating that some arose from ignorance, some from petty jealousy and some from anti-Semitism. He uses the introduction of the theory of relativity to present a case study of how innovative scientific ideas enter both the scientific community and the consciousness of the general public. Crelinsten provides so much astronomical detail, however, that only true aficionados are likely to remain interested throughout. B&w photos and illus. (Aug.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved Jeffrey Crelinsten is an award-winning science writer and historian and president of The Impact Group, a private communications and research firm specializing in science and technology policy, communications, and education. He has written radio and film documentaries on Einstein and his theory of relativity for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), National Public Radio, and the National Film Board of Canada. His two-hour radio biography of Einstein, prepared for Einstein's 1979 centenary, was re-broadcast by the CBC in June, 2005. He lives in Toronto, Canada. |
