Modelling the cosmos and imagining a future without meat: Books in brief
NSRI Research Papers1, 1-8 (2026)|
Abstract
Andrew Robinson reviews five of the best science picks.
This week's book reviews cover a wide range of topics, from the grand scale of cosmology to the very personal choices we make about our diets.
The Simulated Universe
In The Simulated Universe, astrophysicist Sarah Chen explores the mind-bending hypothesis that our reality might be an advanced computer simulation. Chen expertly guides the reader through complex physics concepts, making a compelling, if unsettling, case.
Beyond Meat
Beyond Meat: The Future of Food by David Attwood takes a pragmatic look at the environmental and ethical implications of animal agriculture. Attwood argues that a transition to plant-based and lab-grown alternatives is not just desirable, but essential for the survival of our planet.
Other Notable Mentions
Also reviewed this week: a fascinating biography of Marie Curie focusing on her later years, a deep dive into the mathematics of chaos theory, and a beautifully illustrated guide to the flora of the Amazon rainforest.