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1921: An English publisher visits German scientists.<br>Original letters edited and annotated.<br>The letters include lists of books, which give an idea of the important scientific topics at that time. Some of the authors are well-known, others rather obscure, but information on almost all of them could be found on the internet. A list with brief biographical details is included. I have also added background historical information.<br>(Flyer with link to pdf document)
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Among the pictures in my grandfather's house was a signed photograph of Einstein. When first shown it, I was just old enough to have heard of Einstein and asked where it came from. Well, my grandfather was a publisher, and had once visited the famous scientist to discuss a book on the theory of relativity. Many years later, I found out more: there were copies of letters giving almost daily updates of his trip to Germany in the autumn of 1921. The object was to talk German scientists and find books that would be worth translating into English. At that time, recent developments in theoretical physics, especially the theory of relativity, interested many readers. This was no longer something just for specialists with a solid grasp of mathematics. Much of the work had be done in Germany. There was clearly a demand for good books in English explaining the new theories and results. Several of the letters include lists of books which give an idea of the important scientific topics at that time. Some of the authors are well- known, others rather obscure, but information on almost all of them could be found on the internet. A list with brief biographical details is included. I have also added background historical information. Available as pdf file (free for personal use) at https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1YhkajBuDGMUL95I5cUdfppiNp xBPKFhQabicaGPT-O0/edit?usp=sharing
“I was at Prof. Einstein’s this morning but had a great disappointment for he has gone to Italy. ... Mrs. Einstein and her daughter apparently try to keep him in order but I gather that it is difficult.” “... and had a cup of what is called tea in Berlin – a very weak solution taken with sugar only!” “[Einstein] was very friendly but he is the most unusual man one can imagine.” Dennis Miller, born 1951 in London, has lived in Germany for many years. He worked as a physical chemist in industry and is now semi- retired. Interests include history/philosophy of science and colloid science. E-mail: djm-scientific@mail.de
