From StarTalk.
Neil deGrasse Tyson shares the books that shaped his scientific thinking. From the works that inspired his childhood curiosity about the cosmos to titles that influenced how he views physics, evolution, and critical thinking, Neil walks us through the authors and ideas that helped define his intellectual journey.
You’ll hear about classic science writing from Carl Sagan, Stephen Jay Gould, George Gamow, and more, along with how these books sparked ideas like Manhattanhenge and deepened Neil’s understanding of the universe.
Whether you’re looking for your next science read or want insight into the inspirations behind Neil’s career, this conversation highlights the power of curiosity and lifelong learning.
Timestamps:
00:00 Welcome to StarTalk Plus!
00:53 Neil’s Childhood Interest in the Cosmos
02:50 One Two Three… Infinity: Facts and Speculations of Science by George Gamow
06:48 Inspiration behind Manhattanhenge
10:25 Fads and Fallacies in the Name of Science by Martin Gardner
12:34 The Flying Circus of Physics by Jearl Walker
14:26 The Encyclopedia of Ignorance by Ronald Duncan and Miranda Weston-Smith
16:07 Newton’s Philosophy of Nature: Selections from his Writings
19:32 Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift
26:00 The Throwing Madonna: Essays on the Brain by William H. Calvin
29:13 Ever Since Darwin: Reflections in Natural History by Stephen Jay Gould
31:34 Sport Science: Physical Laws and Optimum Performance by Peter J. Brancazio
35:03 The Cosmic Connection: An Extraterrestrial Perspective by Carl Sagan
35:27 Outro and Final Thoughts
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About StarTalk:
Science meets pop culture on StarTalk! Astrophysicist & Hayden Planetarium director Neil deGrasse Tyson, his comic co-hosts, guest celebrities & scientists discuss astronomy, physics, and everything else about life in the universe. Keep Looking Up!
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