Joel N. Shurkin
Joel N. Shurkin is an American author and journalist known for his work in science communication. He has written extensively on scientific topics, including the history of science, and has received accolades for his ability to explain complex scientific ideas to the general public. Shurkin has also served as a professor, teaching journalism and science communication.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Broken Genius
This book provides a comprehensive biography of William B. Shockley, a brilliant physicist who won the Nobel Prize for his role in inventing the transistor, a foundational component for modern electronics. However, Shockley's later life was marred by controversy due to his public endorsement of eugenics and his belief in racial differences in intelligence. These views led to his professional and social isolation. The narrative delves into the complexities of Shockley's character, exploring how a man of such intellectual prowess could also embrace deeply flawed and divisive ideas. It presents a nuanced portrait of a figure whose contributions to science are undeniable, yet whose legacy is irreversibly tainted by his contentious opinions.
The 10087th Greatest Book of All Time