The Essential Einstein: Scientific Writings presents Einstein’s most important physics papers, spanning his groundbreaking contributions to statistical mechanics, quantum theory, and relativity as well as his ambitious yet ultimately unrealized attempts at a general unified field theory. This incisive collection contains works that profoundly influenced the trajectory of modern science. Each piece serves not only as a reflection of his intellectual rigor and creativity but also as a cornerstone of contemporary scientific thought.
The Essential Einstein is a two-volume compendium offering general readers and specialists alike a comprehensive resource on the pivotal writings of Albert Einstein. Organized chronologically by leading authorities on Einstein and his work, this collection illuminates the evolution of Einstein’s scientific and humanistic ideas throughout his life. Each selection is accompanied by explanatory notes that detail the work’s background and significance.
Together with The Essential Einstein: Public Writings, this authoritative collection invites a deeper engagement with the intellectual legacy and enduring influence of Albert Einstein.
Diana Kormos Buchwald is the Robert M. Abbey Professor of History and director and general editor of the Einstein Papers Project at the California Institute of Technology. Tilman Sauer is professor of the history of mathematics and natural sciences at the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz and senior editor of the Einstein Papers Project.
“The definitive compilation of Einstein’s writings and an absolute must for anyone who wants to understand one of the most important thinkers of modern times. Meticulously researched and annotated, it provides an invaluable guide to his ideas, insights, discoveries, and values.”—Walter Isaacson, author of Einstein: His Life and Universe and Steve Jobs
“These beautiful volumes are by far the most useful and compelling compilations of Einstein’s writings that I’ve seen. The editors’ explanations of the historical context and impact of Einstein’s scientific writings are outstanding. The public writings provide a superb route into Einstein’s views on humanitarian, philosophical, cultural, and political issues—many of which are as highly relevant today as in Einstein’s era. These volumes belong in the collection of anyone who is curious about one of the world’s deepest scientific and humanitarian thinkers.”—Kip Thorne, California Institute of Technology and Nobel Laureate in Physics
“Einstein was the most influential scientist of the twentieth century, not just because of his scientific work but also because of his political influence. These two well-curated volumes collect the reasons why Einstein’s name has become a synonym for ‘genius.’ Essential indeed.”—Sabine Hossenfelder, author of Existential Physics: A Scientist’s Guide to Life’s Biggest Questions
