Preface

Summary

This second edition of Cosmology: The Science of the Universe revises and extends the first edition published in 1981. Much has happened since the first edition; many developments have occurred, and cosmology has become a wider field of research.

As before, the treatment is elementary yet broad in scope, and the aim is to present an outline that appeals to the thoughtful person at a level not requiring an advanced knowledge in the natural sciences. Cosmology has many faces, scientific and nonscientific; in this work the primary emphasis is on cosmology as a science, but the important historical, philosophical, and theological aspects are not ignored. Mathematics is avoided except in a few places, mostly at the end of chapters, and the treatment is varied enough to meet the needs of both those who enjoy and do not enjoy mathematics.

At the end of each chapter are two sections entitled Reflections and Projects. The Reflections section presents topics for reflection and discussion. The Projects section raises questions and issues that a challenged reader might care to tackle. Cosmology impels us to ask deep questions, read widely, and think deeply. It is not the sort of subject that lends itself readily to simple yes and no answers. On most issues there are conflicting arguments to be investigated, weighed, rejected, accepted, or modified according to one's personal tastes and beliefs.