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Newton's Principia for the Common Reader
Representing a decade's work from one of the world's most distinguished physicists, this major publication is, as far as is known, the first comprehensive analysis of Newton's Principia without recourse to secondary sources. Chandrasekhar analyses some 150 propositions which form a direct chain leading to Newton's formulation of his universal law of gravitation. In each case, Newton's proofs are arranged in a linear sequence of equations and arguments, avoiding the need to unravel the necessarily convoluted style of Newton's connected prose. In almost every case, a modern version of the proofs is given to bring into sharp focus the beauty, clarity, and breathtaking economy of Newton's methods. This book will stimulate great interest and debate among the scientific community, illuminating the brilliance of Newton's work under the steady gaze of Chandrasekhar's rare perception.
618 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1995
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
January 31, 2012
First off: This is not Newton's Principia merely retold. This is a total reworking of Newton's ideas and theories using modern notation and terminology. Chandrasekhar goes into immense detail for each problem. It's fascinating and intense all at the same time.
Second off: Visiting a rare scientific book exhibit at the George Peabody library reminded me of this excellent book. The exhibit had a first edition Principia that I was drooling over. For me, that was the highlight.
Third off: I can't believe it's been *gasp* almost 15 years since I read this book. Where does the time go?
Fourth off: Chandrasekhar was a freaking genius. The kind that doesn't come along very often. He passed away just before I started college, and it was clear that his presence was still felt on campus. This book was his passion in his emeritus years.
Second off: Visiting a rare scientific book exhibit at the George Peabody library reminded me of this excellent book. The exhibit had a first edition Principia that I was drooling over. For me, that was the highlight.
Third off: I can't believe it's been *gasp* almost 15 years since I read this book. Where does the time go?
Fourth off: Chandrasekhar was a freaking genius. The kind that doesn't come along very often. He passed away just before I started college, and it was clear that his presence was still felt on campus. This book was his passion in his emeritus years.
November 20, 2019
I'm glad I read this book, as I have often seen the Principia mentioned without ever knowing quite what was in it. And now I do.
May 29, 2018
This book explains many of Newton's propositions using modern maths. It just shows how good is Calculus(sic) and Vector Algebra over geometry. Many of the propositions are proved geometrically, and are very hard to understand. Chandra's book clears them up.
June 5, 2018
Wonderful. Really takes you step by step through the Principia and helps you understand Newton's work. Well worth the price, believe me.
December 5, 2024
Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar modernizes the writing of Sir Isaac Newton for a modern reader already familiar with calculus and classical mechanics. However, as the historian of physics I. Bernard Cohen warns, Chandrasekhar makes a number of ahistorical comments due to his ignorance of the history of the subject. This gap in knowledge is actually common among physicists, and is not unique to the late astrophysicist. But other than that hiccup, this is a fine book.
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January 10, 2011modern transl.
June 10, 2014
Brilliant!
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
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