Mathematics & Science Bargain Book Box

Mathematics & Science Bargain Book Box (17 Books)

This collection offers a comprehensive exploration of the physical and biological laws governing our existence, ranging from the microscopic electrical signals in our cells to the vast mathematical constructs of infinity. Readers will encounter deep dives into the history of global exploration, the evolution of quantum physics, and the intricate neurological maps that define human perception. The selection balances rigorous scientific inquiry with accessible guides to the natural world, including the chemistry of the elements and the urgent environmental history of the Greenland ice sheet.

1. Beyond the Known by Andrew Rader This ambitious narrative traces the trajectory of human exploration from the earliest terrestrial migrations to the future of interstellar travel. Rader examines how the persistent drive to cross horizons has fundamentally shaped modern civilization and technological progress. The text highlights the pivotal moments where discovery met innovation to expand the boundaries of the reachable world. It concludes by looking toward the stars and the next phase of our species' journey into the vacuum of space.

2. The Little Book of the Elements by Jack Challoner This concise guide provides a systematic overview of the periodic table and the building blocks of the universe. Each element is examined through its unique properties, historical discovery, and practical applications in daily life. The book clarifies how these substances interact to form the complex chemistry of our planet and ourselves. It serves as a sharp, factual reference for understanding the material composition of everything in existence.

3. We Are Electric by Sally Adee Adee explores the burgeoning field of bioelectricity and the "electrome" that dictates how our bodies function at a cellular level. The narrative reveals how electrical signals govern everything from wound healing to the way our nerves communicate with our brains. It investigates the history of "galvanism" and the modern breakthroughs that could revolutionize medicine through targeted electrical interventions. This study presents a new lens through which to view human biology beyond purely chemical or genetic frameworks.

4. Invisible Lines by Maxim Samson Samson investigates the myriad borders—both natural and man-made—that organize our world and influence human behavior. The book explores how biological zones, linguistic boundaries, and geopolitical frontiers dictate the flow of life and culture. It challenges the notion of a borderless world by highlighting the hidden divisions that continue to define identity and access. The analysis provides a precise look at how geography and social constructs intersect to create a global patchwork of "invisible" constraints.

5. The Importance of Being Interested by Robin Ince Ince advocates for a life led by scientific curiosity, sharing his own journey of discovering the wonders of the cosmos and the natural world. Through interviews with leading scientists, he explores how an inquisitive mindset can provide solace and clarity in a complex age. The book moves from the profound mysteries of particle physics to the intricate behavior of the animal kingdom. It remains a grounded call to engage with the evidence-based reality of our universe.

6. How Evolution Explains Everything About Life by New Scientist This volume distills the core principles of evolutionary biology into a clear and comprehensive overview of how life has diversified over billions of years. It addresses common misconceptions while explaining the mechanisms of natural selection, genetic drift, and adaptation. The text incorporates recent discoveries that have refined Darwin’s original theory for the modern genomic era. It functions as a factual roadmap for understanding the interconnectedness of all living organisms.

7. Alex Through the Looking-Glass by Alex Bellos Bellos travels the globe to demonstrate how mathematical concepts are deeply embedded in our daily lives and cultural perceptions. From the significance of the number seven to the geometry of the natural world, the book reveals the hidden patterns that dictate our reality. It bridges the gap between abstract numerical theory and the tangible experiences of human history. The narrative provides a compelling look at why numbers hold such a profound grip on the human psyche.

8. Trees: 10 Things You Should Know by Carolyn Fry This focused study outlines the essential roles that trees play in maintaining the Earth’s ecological balance and climate stability. Fry details the complex internal systems of trees, including their methods of communication and nutrient distribution. The book addresses the critical threats facing global forests and the necessity of preservation for future biodiversity. It offers a precise, data-driven look at these ancient organisms and their impact on our atmosphere.

9. Escape From Shadow Physics by Adam Forrest Kay Kay challenges the traditional interpretations of quantum mechanics, arguing for a more intuitive understanding of reality. He explores the "pilot-wave" theory and other alternative models that seek to remove the paradoxes often associated with the subatomic world. The book critiques the current scientific consensus and proposes a path toward a new revolution in physics. It provides a rigorous but accessible entry point into the debate over the fundamental nature of existence.

10. When We Touch by Michael Banissy Professor Banissy examines the latest psychological and physiological research regarding the vital importance of physical contact for human health. The book breaks down how touch influences our social bonds, emotional regulation, and even our immune systems. It discusses the "touch hunger" prevalent in modern society and the scientific consequences of our increasingly digital lives. The text remains a factual exploration of a sensory experience that is often taken for granted.

11. Brainscapes by Rebecca Schwarzlose This work reveals the astonishing internal maps that the human brain uses to perceive and navigate the surrounding world. Schwarzlose explains how specific clusters of neurons are organized to represent vision, touch, and even abstract thought. The narrative details how these maps develop from infancy and how they can be altered by experience or injury. It offers a direct and insightful look into the sophisticated cartography that happens inside our skulls.

12. The Ice at the End of the World by Jon Gertner Gertner provides a definitive history of the Greenland ice sheet, from the early explorers who mapped its surface to the scientists currently measuring its decline. The book illustrates the critical role this massive body of ice plays in regulating global sea levels and ocean currents. It blends historical adventure with contemporary climate science to show the high stakes of a warming Arctic. The prose is precise and sobering, documenting a landscape that is fundamentally changing our future.

13. Spark by Timothy J. Jorgensen Jorgensen traces the history of our relationship with electricity, from the ancient observations of lightning to the development of the modern power grid. He explains the dual nature of electricity as both a fundamental biological force and a transformative technological tool. The book details how pioneers like Franklin, Faraday, and Edison harnessed this energy to reshape human society. It serves as a comprehensive biography of the force that powers the modern world.

14. A Brief Welcome to the Universe by Neil deGrasse Tyson This compact guide offers a high-level tour of the cosmos, covering topics from planetary science to the fate of the galaxy. Tyson distills complex astrophysical concepts into clear explanations of how the universe began and how it continues to evolve. The book provides a factual overview of black holes, dark matter, and the search for extraterrestrial life. It is designed as a precise introduction for anyone seeking to understand their place in the vastness of space.

15. Beyond Infinity by Eugenia Cheng Cheng demystifies the mathematical concept of infinity by moving beyond simple numbers into the realm of abstract logic and set theory. She uses relatable examples to explain how there can be different sizes of infinity and why these ideas matter to mathematicians. The book navigates the boundary between the finite world we inhabit and the limitless structures of pure thought. It offers a rigorous yet engaging exploration of one of the most challenging ideas in science.

16. The Doomsday Calculation by William Poundstone Poundstone investigates the "Copernican Principle" and the mathematical formulas used to predict the lifespan of the human race. The book examines the history of the Doomsday Argument and how probability theory can be applied to existential risks. It evaluates the scientific validity of using past data to forecast future events, ranging from the duration of Broadway shows to the end of civilization. The analysis is a sharp look at the intersection of mathematics, philosophy, and survival.

17. Amphibious Soul by Craig Foster Foster reflects on the scientific necessity of reconnecting with the wild through his experiences in the kelp forests of South Africa. He describes the biological adaptations and sensory awareness required to navigate and survive in untamed environments. The book argues that humans possess an innate "amphibious" nature that is often stifled by modern, urban living. It provides a factual yet deeply personal account of how observing the natural world can restore a sense of belonging to the planet.