Robert Jastrow does a wonderful job of explaining the various theories and mindsets of Charles Darwin without pressing any bias in the mix. Robert, if you read this, thank you once again for another outstanding read.

Read this book if you have an interest in Astronomy or how astronomy relates to God. Jastrow presents a plausible view for how the universe began. What makes this book special is Jastrow's views on God and on the universe.

Robert Jastrow is certainly not a Christan, and never proclaims to be. The God Jastrow argues for is very secular and can accomadate many religions. And perhaps that is the what makes his views special.

Much of what Jastrow says about the universe and how it had to have a beginning and a creator is very revealing. Jastrow has some famous quotes in this book that you may have read elsewhere. For this purporse alone the book is worth reading. One of the more famous views comes from his story of a philsopher trying to prove that God does not exist. The philsopher for years has come up against this unbearable mountain called God and just when it appears they are read to scale the mountain and proclaim victory, another mountain twice the orignal's size pops up. Jastrow argues that this second mountain is unaviodable and unclimbable. Because this is unacceptable for some, many chose ot ignore it or dismiss it. However, despite their efforts the mountain is still there and as Jastow points out, the mountian is there for good. Calling this mountain the Big Bang does not solve anything, rather it avoids the issue altogether.

Very well written. If you have not read books on astronomy do not worry. Nothing to complicated here, so you can dive right in.

. . .as to why science and theology don't have to be enemies. Dr. Jastrow, recognized as one of the world's foremost astronomers (and an acknowledged agnostic on religious matters) demonstrates with remarkable honesty that astronomy and theology may well have more to talk about than the fanatics in either field would like to admit. He does so in a manner which is non-threatening, non-controversial, and non-technical.

The book's greatest flaw, in my opinion, is that at times it does not seem techincal enough. The type of person most likely to purchase this book is frequently well-read and informed about the issues, and well able to handle a deeper discussion.

With this excellent book, Robert Jastrow has written a good, easily understood overview of the Argument for Design from the perspective of cosmology. He first presents the reasons why there is a consensus among scientist for the Big Bang theory and an expanding universe (particularly convincing is Penzias/Wilson's radiation from the cosmic fireball). The universe is not only expanding, it is doing so at a controlled rate that allows for intelligent life (a bit faster start would have lead to rapid expansion, slower leading to an early collapse). He then leads the reader to the obvious questions raised by the new cosmology; who did it and why. Why did the Universe begin in an explosion? Did the Universe exist before that moment? Why does the Universe seem designed for life and for man? A nice extra is the final chapter by Steven Katz; Judaism, God and the Astronomers. He argues that Judaism permits freedom of ideas, and that interpretation of Biblical texts is a long tradition. He quotes Maimonides, saying that the writers of Genesis used metaphors, "in order that the uneducated may comprehend it according to the measure of their facilities and the feebleness of their comprehension; while the educated take it in a different (i.e., allegorical or nonliteral) sense." Other nice extras include the many historical photos as well as an index.

. . .introduction to Astronomy from one of America's foremost Astronomers.

I have a confession to make. Astronomy has always fascinated me -- ever since I was a very small child. When other 2nd graders were talking about whatever it is that normal 2nd graders talk about, I was talking about Clyde Tombaugh, Sir William Herschel, John C. Adams, etc. -- the men who discovered Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. I remember scanning the skies for hours on end with a 6 inch Newtonian reflector borrowed from my uncle. I could go on and on -- but I think you understand my point. I have always loved Astronomy.

This wonderful book should be back in print. It is a readable (and beautiful) college-level introduction to the basic ideas, concepts, and history of this fascinating science. It is perfectly accessible for the layman -- and even for those previously unfamiliar with Astronomy.

Dr. Jastrow's text is clear and well-written, and the illustrations provided suit the discussion.

A worthy book.

I looked at this book as a supplement for an Honors Seminar examining the idea of "happiness." As part of our course, we examined cultural notions of happiness, specifically, "the American Dream." This book provided an easy to read narrative illuminating the idea of the "dream" from outside the borders. I particularly liked the wonderful photographs. These make real the turn of the century America that many immigrants found.