Ode to the genius

On theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking's 79th birth anniversary, we've curated a list of the best material to read, watch, and listen to

It is rare that a theoretical physicist transcends the realms of physics textbooks and research, to popular science and pop culture. But Stephen Hawking (1942-2018) was so much more - from his tongue-in-cheek humour to his battle with ALS, Hawking remains an inspiration for generations to come.

PLAY
Quantum Chess: The makers describe this as a version of the classic strategy game that follows the rules of probability and uncertainty, and treats each piece as a quantum particle. The promo has Hawking go to battle against Paul Rudd of Antman fame, and has been narrated by Keanu Reeves. 
Log on to: www.quantumchess.net

WATCH
Stephen Hawking: A Brief History of Mine (2013): While the Theory of Everything remains the most popular film about Hawking, this documentary, narrated by the man himself, recounts his early life, struggle with ALS, and his eventual recognition as a globally renowned scientist. 
Log on to: www.youtube.com

LISTEN
The Universe and Beyond, with Stephen Hawking (2018): This episode of StarTalk Radio hosted by Neil deGrasse Tyson features Stephen Hawking in one of his last on-camera interviews. He is joined by astrophysicist Janna Levin and popular theoretical physicist and futurist Michio Kaku in a freewheeling discussion about imaginary time, time travel, and quantum mechanics. 
Log on to: www.startalkradio.net

READ
A Briefer History of Time (2005): Hawking's bestselling A Brief History of Time introduced non-scientists to the fundamentals of cosmology and the universe in a simple way. This book is a sequel of sorts, written with Leonard Mlodinow. It makes the material even more accessible and includes updates from the intervening 17 years.
Log on to: www.amazon.in

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