The Symbolic Universe: Geometry and Physics 1890–1930
The Symbolic Universe: Geometry and Physics 1890–1930 is a history of how geometrical ideas shaped physics during a period of major change. Its coverage ranges from debates about the nature of geometry to special and general relativity, including work by Minkowski, Einstein, Hilbert, Noether, Ricci, Levi-Civita, and Weyl.
At a glance
- Covers the history of geometry and physics from 1890 to 1930.
- Examines philosophical debates about geometry and its connections with psychology.
- Discusses Minkowski’s reformulation of special relativity and Einstein’s path to general relativity.
- Includes accounts of Hilbert’s work on axiomatizing relativity and Emmy Noether’s work on physics.
- Concludes with efforts to formulate general relativity using the Riemann differential.
Reference price: $265.00
Price checked: Nov 14, 2026
View offerAhead of Black FridayExplore the selectionPros and cons
Pros
- Brings conceptual history, philosophy of geometry, and developments in relativity into one volume.
- Gives attention to contributors beyond Einstein, including Minkowski, Hilbert, Noether, Ricci, Levi-Civita, and Weyl.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | Oxford University Press |
|---|---|
| Publication date | September 23, 1999 |
| Edition | 1st |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 302 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0198500882 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0198500889 |
| Weight listed | 1.25 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 9.48 x 6.1 x 0.84 inches |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers of the history and philosophy of science interested in geometry’s role in modern physics.
- Researchers studying the development of relativity and its mathematical foundations.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking an introductory physics textbook or a practical guide to solving physics problems.
Frequently asked questions
What period does the book cover?
It focuses on developments between 1890 and 1930, including debates about geometry and the emergence of special and general relativity.
Which scientists and mathematicians are discussed?
The listing describes coverage of Einstein, Minkowski, Hilbert, Emmy Noether, Ricci, Levi-Civita, and Weyl.
Is this a physics textbook?
The supplied description presents it as a detailed historical account, not a problem-solving or instructional physics textbook.
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