Carlo Rovelli presents Anaximander and the Nature of Science

This event took place on 23 February 2023. The information below is correct as of the publication date.

The theoretical physicist and bestselling author Carlo Rovelli talks about his entirely original reading of the little known ancient Greek philosopher Anaximander which puts this early thinker on a par with Newton, Galileo and Einstein and asserts his foundational influence on the history of western thought.

In the 6th century BCE, Anaximander’s insights paved the way for cosmology, physics, geography, meteorology and biology. He not only conceived for the first time that the Earth is a rock, suspended in space, but also that animals evolve, that storms and earthquakes are natural (not supernatural), proposed the cycle of water, and drew the first map of the known world. Above all he understood that progress is made by the endless search for knowledge.

Carlo Rovelli’s Anaximander and the Nature of Science, his first and still favourite book, is now available in English. The author will be signing copies on the night.

Half Price tickets available for Members, Students, Under 26 and other concession groups. The event will be captioned with automated captioning.

Please note that Sarah Perry is no longer able to take part in this event.

Carlo Rovelli is a theoretical physicist who has made significant contributions to the physics of space and time. He has worked in Italy and the United States and currently directs the quantum gravity research group of the Centre de Physique Théorique in Marseille, France. His previous books include Seven Brief Lessons on Physics, The Order of Time, Reality Is Not What It Seems and There Are Places in the World Where Rules Are Less Important Than Kindness are international bestsellers that have been translated into more than 50 languages.

'Carlo Rovelli is a genius and an amazing communicator'
– Neil Gaiman

The British Library is a charity. Your support helps us open up a world of knowledge and inspiration for everyone. Donate today: https://support.bl.uk/