Power

From the secrets of the universe to the healing powers of music, this book draws on the passions of eight professionals who explore the "power" behind their own particular fields of interest, from the arts and humanities to the natural sciences. Their essays span the fascinating world of microscopic biochemical machines; the power of the cinema screen; democracy; mathematical knot theory; innovative new ways of producing energy to meet increasing world demands as well as the power of life and death.

In this book, first published in 2006, seven internationally renowned writers address the theme of Power from the perspective of their own disciplines. Energy expert Mary Archer begins with an exploration of the power sources of our future. Astronomer Neil Tyson leads a tour of the orders of magnitude in the cosmos. Mathematician and inventor of the Game of Life John Conway demonstrates the power of simple ideas in mathematics. Screenwriter Maureen Thomas explains the mechanisms of narrative power in the media of film and videogames, Elisabeth Bronfen the emotional power carried by representations of life and death, and Derek Scott the power of patriotic music and the mysterious Mozart effect. Finally, celebrated parliamentarian Tony Benn critically assesses the reality of power and democracy in society.

Introduction Alan Blackwell and David MacKay; 1. Sustainable power Mary Archer; 2. Powers of ten Neil deGrasse Tyson; 3. The Power of Mathematics John Conway; 4. The power of narrative - 2D/3D/4D Maureen Thomas; 5. The power of life and death Elisabeth Bronfen; 6. The power of music Derek Scott; 7. Power and democracy Tony Benn.

Seven leading writers discuss the power behind their own particular fields of interest, from the arts and humanities to the natural sciences. This book explores the importance of democracy, the power of music to heal, and ways of reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.

This book draws on the passion of seven leading writers, who explore the power behind their own particular fields of interest, from the arts and humanities to the natural sciences.