The physicist and bestselling author on the radical politics and drugs of his youth, his life’s work and why we all need a break Carlo Rovelli is professor of physics at Aix-Marseille University. He is a pioneer in research into quantum gravity which seeks to integrate Einstein’s general theory of relativity with quantum mechanics, specifically by removing the idea of time. Rovelli’s slim book _Seven Brief Lessons on Physics_ became an international bestseller last year, outselling _Fifty Shades of Grey_ in his native Italy. His new book, _Reality Is Not What It Seems,_ describes the development of physics from classical Greece to the present day. This interview was conducted on the phone with Rovelli at his home in Marseille. WERE YOU SURPRISED BY THE GREAT SUCCESS OF YOUR BOOK, OF THE APPETITE FOR THEORETICAL PHYSICS? I did not expect it at all. It is translated in 41 languages. I expected just a few thousand copies sold. I think it is because the book offers a perspective on science that also talks about beauty and emotions – I don’t think those things should ever be separated from science. Continue reading...
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