Book description
Nobel Prize-winning physicist Roger Penrose questions some of the most fashionable ideas in physics today, including string theory What can fashionable ideas, blind faith, or pure fantasy possibly have to do with the scientific quest to understand the universe? Surely, theoretical physicists are immune to mere trends, dogmatic beliefs, or flights of fancy? In fact, acclaimed physicist and bestselling author Roger Penrose argues that researchers working at the extreme frontiers of physics are just as susceptible to these forces as anyone else. In this provocative book, he argues that fashion, faith, and fantasy, while sometimes productive and even essential in physics, may be leading today's researchers astray in three of the field's most important areas--string theory, quantum mechanics, and cosmology. Arguing that string theory has veered away from physical reality by positing six extra hidden dimensions, Penrose cautions that the fashionable nature of a theory can cloud our judgment of its plausibility. In the case of quantum mechanics, its stunning success in explaining the atomic universe has led to an uncritical faith that it must also apply to reasonably massive objects, and Penrose responds by suggesting possible changes in quantum theory. Turning to cosmology, he argues that most of the current fantastical ideas about the origins of the universe cannot be true, but that an even wilder reality may lie behind them. Finally, Penrose describes how fashion, faith, and fantasy have ironically also shaped his own work, from twistor theory, a possible alternative to string theory that is beginning to acquire a fashionable status, to "conformal cyclic cosmology," an idea so fantastic that it could be called "conformal crazy cosmology." The result is an important critique of some of the most significant developments in physics today from one of its most eminent figures.
Stone Boomstick
Bookmarks are a fantastic organizational tool. They help me keep track of important moments in my audiobooks. The app is perfect for people with visual impairments. Itβs so easy to navigate.
High Woo
This app has reignited my passion for literature β I'm devouring books like never before. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a revelation. It elevates the audio quality to a new level. As someone who listens to audiobooks daily, I can confidently say ListenBook is the best player out there. The sleep timer and auto-rewind features are lifesavers, and the sound quality is exceptional. Thank you for such a great app!
Tabasco Dracula
I'm in awe of how this app has made reading a part of my busy life. Streamlined audiobook integration β this app's usability is truly impressive. Quick access to chapters and controls makes ListenBook a joy to use. It's a seamless experience. Looping playback helps me revise and memorize complex topics effectively. A study essential! I was thoroughly impressed by this audiobook. The combination of engaging content and skilled narration made my daily commute something to look forward to. The narrator's timing and intonation were spot-on, enhancing rather than distracting from the material. Definitely worth a credit!
Frosty Sunshine
This app's features, from bookmarking to customizable playback speed, are fantastic. π The simplicity and functionality of this app are top-notch. I can start a book with just a tap and immerse myself in the story instantly. π±π Managing my audiobook collection is a pleasure thanks to this app's usability.
Trixie
No more straining my eyes to read β now I can simply immerse myself in storytelling. π§ Immerse yourself in stories effortlessly β this app's functionality is the gateway to endless audiobook adventures. ππ The sleep timer is a lifesaver. I fall asleep listening to my books every night.
Darkside Orbit
I can't believe how easy it is to download audio from various sources. So convenient! CarPlay compatibility takes my driving experience to a whole new level. Audiobooks on the road have never been better. The playback speed control is a game-changer. ListenBook lets me listen at my own pace.
Feral Cookie
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a fantastic addition that enhances my audio experience. This app's convenience has transformed my screen time into meaningful reading sessions. Savoring audiobooks without complications β this app's design is top-notch. The playback speed adjustment is a game-changer for busy individuals. Time saver!
Dark Matter
This app's user-friendly interface has made reading on-the-go a breeze. Accessing literary treasures has never been this straightforward β thank you, app! Simplifying my audiobook experience β this app's design is a game-changer. Bookmarks are a lifesaver for audiobook lovers. They help me keep track of important moments. I love how easy it is to download audiobooks with ListenBook. The app is incredibly convenient.
SunVolt
Audiobooks have never been this accessible β this app is a true innovation. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is fascinating. I can alter the reader's voice to match my moodβwhat a creative addition! My productivity has soared since I started using ListenBook for my study materials. With features like auto-rewind, I never lose my place when I pause listening.
BlacKitten
This app has turned my screen time into valuable learning opportunities. Audiobook magic at my fingertips! This app's thoughtful features, such as statistics tracking and audio filters, have added a new layer of excitement to my reading journey. πβ¨ Automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my library. The narrator's voice was so pleasant and easy to listen to. They had perfect pacing and made even the slower parts engaging. I found myself looking forward to my commute just to listen more!
FireBrang
ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary journeys of the mind. The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is amazing. ListenBook is top-notch. Perfect for repeat listening! The narrator's performance was so rich with detail that I'm sure I'll discover new layers on a second listen. Their interpretation felt authentic to the material while bringing fresh insights. The audio production was pristine from start to finish. This audiobook performed its function without excelling. The narrator's delivery was straightforward and easy to follow, though lacking in dramatic flair. The recording quality was decent with only occasional minor inconsistencies in volume. An acceptable but forgettable listening experience. A middle-of-the-road audiobook that neither impressed nor disappointed. The narrator's voice was agreeable enough for extended listening, though their character differentiation could have been stronger. The production met basic industry standards without any standout qualities.
ByteBard
Bookmarks are a lifesaver for my study materials. I can easily revisit important sections. Automated artwork and metadata extraction make my audiobook library look neat and professional.
Boost Princess
Listening to audiobooks has made my daily commute more enjoyable and productive. Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a fun way to customize my listening experience. The narrator's voice took some getting used to - a bit nasal at first - but I grew to like it after a few chapters. Their pacing was excellent throughout.
Pop Bee
Frequent updates ensure there's always something new and exciting to listen to. π§ Satiate your reading cravings while managing household affairs β this app has it all! ππΌ
Star Jammer
I can't imagine my audiobook routine without ListenBook's seamless audio player. I'm hooked on this app's curated content β it's like having a personal librarian. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is fascinating. I can alter the reader's voice to match my moodβwhat a creative addition! Binaural audio processing really helps reduce fatigue.
True Sweetness
ListenBook's commitment to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every detail. The sound quality is excellent. It feels like Iβm in the story.
Crossing Guard
This app has made multitasking a breeze β I can listen while I work, cook, or exercise. This app's sleek design and effortless navigation have made my audiobook journey a true delight. ListenBook's audio filters have given me the power to tailor my listening experience to my preferences.
Tomcat
ListenBook's commitment to providing top-notch audio quality has taken my audiobook experience to a new level. I'm amazed at how this app has made my daily activities more enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. Great for listening to a variety of content. Highly recommend! A middle-of-the-road audiobook that neither impressed nor disappointed. The narrator's voice was agreeable enough for extended listening, though their character differentiation could have been stronger. The production met basic industry standards without any standout qualities.
Freak
π± It's like having a personal audiobook library at my fingertips! This app's functionality is a dream come true for book lovers. ππ₯ ListenBook has made listening to audiobooks a breeze. The smooth playback and intuitive interface are unmatched.
Solo Kill
I can't imagine my life without this app β it's my constant source of books. An average audiobook experience. Nothing was wrong with itβthe narration was fine, and the story was okayβbut nothing particularly stood out. It served its purpose as entertainment during my commute.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience