Passionate Minds

The popular stereotype of the scientist as mad boffin or weedy nerd has been peddled widely in film and fiction, with the implication that the world of science is far removed from the intellectual and emotional messiness of other human activities. In Passionate Minds, distinguished scientist Lewis Wolpert investigates the style and motivation of some of the most eminent scientists in the world. In this stimulating collection of conversations, scientists in fields as diverse as particle physics and evolutionary biology explore how their backgrounds have shaped their careers, aspirations, and discoveries.

Accessible and truly fascinating, the 23 interviews offer insights into the minds of such famous scientists as Murray Gell-Man, Jared Diamond, James Lovelock, and Gerald Edelman, proving that they are easily as illuminating and interesting as the personalities of the latest literary prize-winners.