My past months pick for best books are the two SKBF Publishing's best selling which was recommended by anther reader and I am glad I listened
1) Rumi & Self Psychology (Psychology of Tranquility)
2) Sara's Therapy: The Way to Purity (A session by session therapy for self growth)
3) Seat of the Soul

I'll qualify the rating: It's one star if you want some entertainment, zero stars if you think you'll gain anything of scientific value.

This book is an interesting and intellectually seductive waste of time - or, should I say space-time continuum?

The entire discourse is a series of circuitous "logic", like chains of circles forming spheres forming circles. The irony is that Zukav says "...going around in a circle is one kind of dead end." I agree.

Particle physics theory is more amazing and fantastic then I could have imagined. The depth of our understanding of the atom and particles are both beautiful and awesomely powerful.

When I was young (25) I did not know that I could understand particle physics or quantum mechanics. Worrying about my GPA I wouldn't even attempt it in college. But I read this book. Loved it. Read ten or so "real" books on quantum mechanics, string, astrophysics, then went back to learn classically physics. And learned how the equations work.

If you want to know particle physics for fun, I recommend this book. The book shows you many equations, but you don't have to work them. There will be plenty of time for that later, if you care to.

The author uses many analogies to Buddhism. They are helpful to some like me. For my generation, Buddhism was highly regarded. I learned how to meditate, otherwise the stories are nice but not necessarily true. They help illustrate points in the book. They help explain the science, but they are not science themselves. Don't worry about them if they don't appeal to you.

After learning about theoretical particle physics I read books on experimental physics and how particle accelerators and detectors work. I wanted to know exactly how the scientists knew what they said they knew. The physics in the book are provable, not everything has been proven, not all theories will be shown to be correct. Many of them are true, and have been proven before and after the book was written.

I tried to read this book, as I have really enjoyed all other books by Gary Zukav. This was the exception. I just couldn't get through the entire book, so maybe I missed the point or message of the book. It was not easy reading.

I have not recieved my order. The book "Dancing Wu Li Masters" has not arrived. I would like to get it soon.

Thank You
Ed Chevalley

One of my favorites along with The Tao of Physics. If you like discussions bringing Western physics and Taoism together you should enjoy this.

He says that QM without the math is pure wonderment at the Universe. Fascinating book. I read every book I can find on QM, now, because I first read this book. I am listening to it on CD right now. I see a lot of criticism of this kind of popularization of difficult technical material. To those people, I say, do a better job. SInce you haven't done that better job to date, I am reading this book, and enjoying every minute of it. Reading this book is an exercise in fascination. If school was taught the way this book is written, there would be no absenteeism.

Bought this book from "Borders" though i normally buy from Amazon. Wonderful book for laymen like me to understand the course of modern Physics. Many experiments were very lucidly elaborated which helps us understand their conclusion in an easy way. I liked especially the Special Theory of Relativity section. Author clearly seems to indicate that "sense" perception does not lead to "complete truth". Perception is specific to "observer" and what is "intended to be observed".

A man and woman walking at a distance may be thought about as many things by many observers like a child may think it is its parents, a lover may imagine two lovers, a homosexual may think of the peculiarities of the world whilst a social worker may wonder how to make marriages successful and so on and so forth.

A holistic picture of the whole universe may be gotten by "intuition" rather than observation.

That the author suggests that the world is already perfect is a very rewarding observation. Everything is perfect in its own way. That we project our ideas about perfection onto the world and hence its "imperfection" is a sure statement and also avers the religious doctrines which suggest that imperfection cannot come from perfection... viz. God

The book is highly recommended for scientific but open minds which allow the magic of the world to trickle into their conciousness.

The whole world is filled with divine consciousness and miracles, paranormal phenomena, unadulterated love, extra sensory perception, vision, intuition are some of its attributes. What activates the senses, what projects the world into the mirror of the mind, what likes and dislikes, lives and dies, what fears and what is eternal are some questions that need to be asked. Consciousness is the answer.

Do particles like photons, sub atomic ones have consciousness? Looks like they do. The whole world is filled with it... why not them?

Read this one without fail and open yourself to the extraordinary spectacle called "WORLD"!

Probably the best science book Ive ever read, and certainly no better way to explain quantum physics than this. Stripped of all the math related to it, you'll have fun with this one!!!!

Read this book a few years ago and just bought it recently for my wife so she could understand what I was talking about sometimes, and to tie in with other reading she is doing that mentions quantum physics. It explains the basic concepts in clear terms, making much more sense out of a VERY abstract field. If you want to understand what it is about, this is a good place to start.

I think the virtue of this book is that it challenges the established scientific paradigm that the universe is made of discrete particles. In other words, that matter is as solid as it seems and somehow energy is separate from matter. It also makes it clear that there are plenty of mysteries left to explore about the nature of the universe, even the physical universe. In addition, it stresses the interrelationships between things and what the implications might be with respect to different subject areas such as psychology.

While it's true Zukav doesn't explain the physics in depth, it does give a layman a sense of the physics is about, what it may mean and good food for thought about how this might relate to spirituality. The book is not a science text, it is a flight of imagination and a pretty good one. Much of the contents is highly speculative, but it is thought provoking and easy to follow.

If you are a scientist or a well-read layman in the area of physics, you might be disappointed. Also, if you have a deep knowledge of Eastern religion you might find it superficial and perhaps even a bit annoying. I think this books makes a sacrifice in terms of accuracy for depth and wonder. As such, it doesn't quite captivate either major audience. However, it is a useful starting point for many people into these often difficult to understand areas.

With respect to organization, I would agree that there is room for improvement. However, it not meant to be a textbook. I can give the author some wiggle room on this because in some ways, it is rather poetic and its value is to convey a sense of awe and wonder. In the regard, I think the author achieved his purpose, but sometimes at the expense of accuracy.

I'm not sure I'm entirely convinced by the author's point of view, but he certainly succeeds in giving you a better understanding of QM and the philosophical questions involved in it.

I'm not sure I'm entirely convinced by the author's point of view, but he certainly succeeds in giving you a better understanding of QM and the philosophical questions involved in it.

This dated book simplifies the historical journey of discovery that became quantum physics. The author proposes interrelationships among: science/scientists, Jungian psychology, eastern mysticism, philosophy & logic, & languaging. Readers vary greatly, finding the physics (even w/o math): daunting, wonderfully enlightening, or boring, depending on the reader. The author simplifies physics mostly in layman's terms, but esoteric ideas are the nature of modern physics--outside the box. As a former physicist, I find his attempt quite admirable; as a former electronics engineer, I wish he'd addressed the error factor. As for accuracy, I cannot personally say, but Jack Sarfatti (whom I highly respect) stated that he'd created/reviewed the physics. Zukav's definitions of technician vs. physicist are relevant too--technicians may be challenged by the open-minded, brain-storming nature of physicists. Many (e.g. Bohm) approach (if not reach) Buddhist viewpoints. I've extensively studied Buddhism & agree with Zukav overall--indeed, he quotes Bohr, Stapp, et al in support of an interrelated universe--but some of his extrapolations are hyperbolic overstatements--reminding me of Gershom Scholem, the historian who popularized Kabbalah. Neither kabbalist nor mystic, his historical analysis was superb; his personal opinions weren't.

IMHO great value lies in exploding the either-or way people tend to view Reality (even in Buddhist philosophy!) which, per Zukav, Einstein, Heisenberg, et al, is only our View of actuality. Unreality has been defined as reifying former conclusions--i.e. forming a conclusion, forgetting it was only a conclusion, & taking it as the truth. This resembles psychological neuroses which are often a child's ways of coping with the world unconsciously continued into the present. Conclusions are analogies & all analogies are wrong--or they'd be identities. Thus, the periodic table, phyla of biology, concepts of waves & particles ...are all inherently incorrect--an error factor must be invoked. If so, the platypus won't upset the biologist & light won't upset the physicist. If water can be gas, liquid, or solid, why can't light be multi-stable? As Zukav states: p. 134: "We often discredit what we know when it contradicts what we have been taught is possible," p. 311: Henry Stapp "Everything we know about nature is in accord with the idea that the fundamental processes of nature lie outside space-time," & p. 313-4 fn: "According to Sarfatti's theory, the wave function of the photon pair is at a `higher level of reality' than the wave function of the separate photons...Every step up to a new level of reality is a step to a new order--that is the definition of a level of reality. of our multilevel hierarchical reality, i.e. the wave functions of events which are `separate' on one level of reality are correlated at the next level up: `separate events' at that level are, in turn, correlates at the next level up, & so on." This definitely parallels the four worlds of Kabbalah & reasonably correlates with the "kayas" (bodies or dimensions) of Tibetan Buddhism.

This dated book simplifies the historical journey of discovery that became quantum physics. The author proposes interrelationships among: science/scientists, Jungian psychology, eastern mysticism, philosophy & logic, & languaging. Readers vary greatly, finding the physics (even w/o math): daunting, wonderfully enlightening, or boring, depending on the reader. The author simplifies physics mostly in layman's terms, but esoteric ideas are the nature of modern physics--outside the box. As a former physicist, I find his attempt quite admirable; as a former electronics engineer, I wish he'd addressed the error factor. As for accuracy, I cannot personally say, but Jack Sarfatti (whom I highly respect) stated that he'd created/reviewed the physics. Zukav's definitions of technician vs. physicist are relevant too--technicians may be challenged by the open-minded, brain-storming nature of physicists. Many (e.g. Bohm) approach (if not reach) Buddhist viewpoints. I've extensively studied Buddhism & agree with Zukav overall--indeed, he quotes Bohr, Stapp, et al in support of an interrelated universe--but some of his extrapolations are hyperbolic overstatements--reminding me of Gershom Scholem, the historian who popularized Kabbalah. Neither kabbalist nor mystic, his historical analysis was superb; his personal opinions weren't.

IMHO great value lies in exploding the either-or way people tend to view Reality (even in Buddhist philosophy!) which, per Zukav, Einstein, Heisenberg, et al, is only our View of actuality. Unreality has been defined as reifying former conclusions--i.e. forming a conclusion, forgetting it was only a conclusion, & taking it as the truth. This resembles psychological neuroses which are often a child's ways of coping with the world unconsciously continued into the present. Conclusions are analogies & all analogies are wrong--or they'd be identities. Thus, the periodic table, phyla of biology, concepts of waves & particles ...are all inherently incorrect--an error factor must be invoked. If so, the platypus won't upset the biologist & light won't upset the physicist. If water can be gas, liquid, or solid, why can't light be multi-stable? As Zukav states: p. 134: "We often discredit what we know when it contradicts what we have been taught is possible," p. 311: Henry Stapp "Everything we know about nature is in accord with the idea that the fundamental processes of nature lie outside space-time," & p. 313-4 fn: "According to Sarfatti's theory, the wave function of the photon pair is at a `higher level of reality' than the wave function of the separate photons...Every step up to a new level of reality is a step to a new order--that is the definition of a level of reality. of our multilevel hierarchical reality, i.e. the wave functions of events which are `separate' on one level of reality are correlated at the next level up: `separate events' at that level are, in turn, correlates at the next level up, & so on." This definitely parallels the four worlds of Kabbalah & reasonably correlates with the "kayas" (bodies or dimensions) of Tibetan Buddhism.

What a pity the two responses to "The Dancing Wu Li Masters" chosen as "spotlight" reviews are both cynical and derogatory. I hope they don't deter others from reading further. Neither reviewer seemed to grasp the fact that Gary Zukav was not writing about physics: He was writing about mental mastery in the *context* of physics, going to great lengths to explain the implications of "Wu Li." The whole book, in fact, is based on five of the many representations of "Wu Li." Zukav even says in the introduction, "This is not a book about physics or eastern philosophies."

All the same, Zukav checked his facts out with "five of the finest physicists in the world" and footnotes their comments where they "punctuate, illustrate, annotate and jab at everything in the text." What more can you want? Those physicists even allowed themselves to be named, surely professional suicide if Zukav is substantially incorrect - as some reviewers maintain. Zukav also warns the reader that knowledge in physics at the time of writing was set to progress rapidly. What was accepted then would soon be made redundant as more information arose.

I feel really sorry for those who get no joy out of this book. I, for one, will go back to it again and again out of sheer delight. Zukav puts it this way: "Most people believe that physicists are explaining the world. Some physicists even believe that, but the Wu Li masters know they are only dancing with it."

All I can say is that, with this book, I danced too.

What a pity the two responses to "The Dancing Wu Li Masters" chosen as "spotlight" reviews are both cynical and derogatory. I hope they don't deter others from reading further. Neither reviewer seemed to grasp the fact that Gary Zukav was not writing about physics: He was writing about mental mastery in the *context* of physics, going to great lengths to explain the implications of "Wu Li." The whole book, in fact, is based on five of the many representations of "Wu Li." Zukav even says in the introduction, "This is not a book about physics or eastern philosophies."

All the same, Zukav checked his facts out with "five of the finest physicists in the world" and footnotes their comments where they "punctuate, illustrate, annotate and jab at everything in the text." What more can you want? Those physicists even allowed themselves to be named, surely professional suicide if Zukav is substantially incorrect - as some reviewers maintain. Zukav also warns the reader that knowledge in physics at the time of writing was set to progress rapidly. What was accepted then would soon be made redundant as more information arose.

I feel really sorry for those who get no joy out of this book. I, for one, will go back to it again and again out of sheer delight. Zukav puts it this way: "Most people believe that physicists are explaining the world. Some physicists even believe that, but the Wu Li masters know they are only dancing with it."

All I can say is that, with this book, I danced too.

Gary Zukav managed as a lay jouralist to write this very easy to read and sometimes very funny book about science and physics. It is as valualable today as it was when first published 1979. Gary offers the notion that there is nothing that is nonsense, except the closed mind that refuses to see another reality. One of the early pioneers that has helped the 'birth of global consciousness' as we experience it today. An open heart and open mind is a necessary element to make the leap from the old world view to the new quantum world view. A must have in your library.
Estelle Myers
MApp.Sc.Hon.PhD.

This book is a very pleasant introduction to quantum theory. It covers not just the concepts, but also something of the history of the people who came up with them. If you're interested in the equations and such, this isn't the book for you. If you're looking for some proof of a relationship btwn physics and eastern philosophy, that's not here either. The Wu Li aspect seems to be the authors interpretation of what he's learned about quantum physics. The rest of us may or may not draw similar conclusions, and I do not feel that the author tries to force any new age mysticism down your throat. In fact, I feel like I've learned a fair amount about modern physics, but do not particularly appreciate any connection with eastern mysticism or new age philosophy.

While Zukav's attempt to build a bridge between Eastern Philosophy and Western science are well-intentioned, in my view he doesn't manage to make it convincing. In many places he somewhat underestimates the complexity and metaphysical subtlety of Eastern thought and equates too many of the concepts of modern physical science with those of Eastern philosophy. The writers of the Eastern sacred scriptures or philosophical texts did not have Newton's universe, Descartes rationalist enterprise, or Galileo's experimental physics in mind when they wrote their texts, nor did they imagine our cosmos to be anything like the one today which involves false vacuums, superstrings, dark matter, curving spacetime, and so on.

Science is a seperate enterprise from religion and philosophy and even in Asia, sciences such as mathematics tended to always have a degree of autonomy. Likewise in the West, while some sects such as the Pythagorans mixed mathematics and religious mysticism, science has kept itself from considering the questions philosophers often think about, such as the One or the Many, or if it does, recasts them in empirical terms.

The depth and insights of Eastern philosophy and religion, like those of the West, are beautiful and profound. But they are outside the domain of science and while sometimes truths appeal to experience, the Buddha would not argue enlightenment or nirvana are found in a lab. One abbot of a Buddhist monastary here is a former physicist who studied at Cambridge, and gave up a promising scientific career to become a monk. Certainly if religion was only to be found in science, then all religions would have long since passed away.

The relationship between the two needs to be handled with critical scrutiny and care. Otherwise, mysticism mixes with science and vice versa, and generally, the mixing is an unfruitful one.

Zukav's style of writing made this book enjoyable to read for me. There are other books out that are similar in nature, but certainly not as well written. This is one of my favorite books and I'm on my second reading now. I usually read 2 or 3 books at the same time, interchanging them a few chapters at a time. A book that has just come out, 'Spiritual Quanta', is what I'm reading along with Zukav's book. They are both very revealing. Thanks for a great read!

Author of
THE TRUTH
ABOUT CAFFEINE

Zukav's style of writing made this book enjoyable to read for me. There are other books out that are similar in nature, but certainly not as well written. This is one of my favorite books and I'm on my second reading now. I usually read 2 or 3 books at the same time, interchanging them a few chapters at a time. A book that has just come out, 'Spiritual Quanta', is what I'm reading along with Zukav's book. They are both very revealing. Thanks for a great read!

Marina Kushner
Author
The Truth About Caffeine: How Companies That Promote It Deceive Us and What We Can Do about It

Gary Zukav did an incredible job on this book. I bought the tape series as well. I recommend it highly.

While I can appreciate Mr. Zukav's motivation for writing this book, he does to some extent become the victim of his own observation that we see what we wish to see. That's not to say that the book fails to offer an interesting if limited summary of quantum mechanics/theory, but the philosophical point of view is difficult to reconcile with the inherently scientific and mathematical nature of the subject. This may be my failure to adequately grasp the caveats and choices he lays out at the beginning. If one subscribes to the idea of independent observer and external existence, then the book offers little satisfaction. If one can embrace the idea of human experience being inexorably tied, even essential to the unfolding nature of the universe, then this book offers a wealth of possibilities. As I see from most of the reviews, the book ultimately compels the reader to choose one perspective or the other. After reading it, I find myself somewhere in between, contemplating the gap between what I think I know and the provocative, challenging enlightenment this way of thinking offers. If you're looking for comforting facts, look somewhere else. If you're willing to live with the uncertainty, jump in and enjoy this entertaining book.

Zukav has a decidedly anti-Western tone and is obviously biased in favor of oriental thinking. This is new age gobbledegook passed off as a bare bones reader on physics. Rather than writing a laconic outline of physics, Zukav spends the majority of his time praising Eastern thought and toying with the idea that everything is subjective.

The reader is referred to any college physics textbook or Isaac Asimov's History of Physics or a good set of encylopedias.

Some of the negative reviews of this book seem to have been written by readers who have a firm grasp of physics, and poo-poo Zukov's lack of credentials. I don't doubt Zukov has misstated some points (although I don't know enough physics to know), but I sense that the sneering is more a reflection of the reviewers' desire to let us know he or she "really" knows physics than of a fundamental flaw in the substance of the book. I found it a pretty good introduction to some trippy ideas, which caused me to realize that some physicists, through their hyperintellectual methods, have come to understand some aspects of What Is in a way that seems to bear out what metaphysicians (or spiritual figures, or what have you) have been saying since the beginning of recorded history.

I am much more familiar with Buddhism than physics, and although I didn't expect to discover much that was really new in that area, I was disappointed that Zukov merely sprinkled a few tidbits of Buddhism like fairy dust throughout the book without explaining much or seriously trying to draw parallels. Frankly, as a purported effort to tie the two approaches together, the book is pretty lame. As other reviewers have noted, this is almost exclusively a book about physics, with only the slightest nod to eastern religion; those reviewers who complain that there's too much emphasis on "oriental" thought almost certainly haven't read much of the book, unless they consider any such discussion too much.

I found some passages of the book intellectually challenging. Whether this is more a reflection of my lack of brilliance or Zukov's I can't say, but it would be fair to assume you'll have to read some of this book carefully, go back over sections a couple of times, and still may not feel that you entirely "get it." But I think you'll get an appreciation for how marvelous the universe is, even as perceived by our itty bitty brains.

Some of the negative reviews of this book seem to have been written by readers who have a firm grasp of physics, and poo-poo Zukov's lack of credentials. I don't doubt Zukov has misstated some points (although I don't know enough physics to know), but I sense that the sneering is more a reflection of the reviewers' desire to let us know he or she "really" knows physics than of a fundamental flaw in the substance of the book. I found it a pretty good introduction to some trippy ideas, which caused me to realize that some physicists, through their hyperintellectual methods, have come to understand some aspects of What Is in a way that seems to bear out what metaphysicians (or spiritual figures, or what have you) have been saying since the beginning of recorded history.

I am much more familiar with Buddhism than physics, and although I didn't expect to discover much that was really new in that area, I was disappointed that Zukov merely sprinkled a few tidbits of Buddhism like fairy dust throughout the book without explaining much or seriously trying to draw parallels. Frankly, as a purported effort to tie the two approaches together, the book is pretty lame. As other reviewers have noted, this is almost exclusively a book about physics, with only the slightest nod to eastern religion.

I found some passages of the book intellectually challenging. Whether this is more a reflection of my lack of brilliance or Zukov's I can't say, but it would be fair to assume you'll have to read some of this book carefully, go back over sections a couple of times, and still may not feel that you entirely "get it." But I think you'll get an appreciation for how marvelous the universe is, even as perceived by our itty bitty brains.

I enjoyed this book though it was somewhat dry reading. Gary Zukov, (admittedly) neither a scientist or Zen master attempts to make a correlation between quantum physics and eastern religion. I find the topic of 'consciousness' and 'spirituality' and their relationship with the physical world quite fascinating, and for this reason I give the book four stars. If you are interested in similar topics to `Dancing Wu Li Masters, I suggest you check out "The Field" by Lynne McTaggart (ISBN 0060931175), and also "The Hidden Messages in Water" by Masaru Emoto (ISBN 1582701148). Both of these books offer a fascinating look at consciousness and its affect upon so-called physical matter (energy).

This review is to give a prospective reader a more informed overview of the content of this book [...].

[...] The book is incredibly well documented with an informative bibliography and no fact is presented without the requisite reference supplied for the reader to follow up if they are so inclined.

This book is NOT by David Finkelstein co-authored with Gary Zukav as erroneously stated. David Finkelstein provides the forward only... "New Physics" is a common reference to quantum sciences, particle physics, and relativity. It serves to identify the distinction from Newtonian physics and to correlate it to "new age" is nothing short of ignorance. But then we all know that you do not end a sentence with a preposition; that gluten is a plant protein; and the colloquialism is "glutton for punishment."

I have owned this book for many years. I first read it nearly 15 years ago and at that time the book was already over 10 years old... If you are at all familiar with Quantum physics and the quest for the ultimate unifying theory that brings together Newtonian physics and Quantum physics then you should be aware that new discoveries are currently being made... making the subject somewhat of a moving target. Given that the book was first published in 1979 it is a reasonable summation that new things have been discovered since then therefore much of what the book elucidates has advanced since its publication, though this hardly makes the book without merit.

It is important to note that I am a Buddhist with over 20 years of practice and Dharma training and am therefore qualified to comment on this aspect of the book [...]. While the book is a layman's exploration of Quantum mechanics, the expedition is conducted within the framework of a spiritual journey. Though having read other books by Zukav this may be more readily apparent to me that someone else. Nonetheless the merits of this book must be evaluated both for the scientific, and spiritual effort.

Computer Sciences is my area of expertise not Quantum sciences, nor was it Gary Zukav's when he wrote this book. However in my own quest to completely understand what I had read in this book I found many corroborating and complimentary books, by other experts in the field like Lee Smolin (Three Roads To Quantum Gravity), Brian Green (The Elegant Universe), David Darling (Equations of Eternity), Fritjof Capra (The Tao of Physics), not to mention the works of Gýdel, Turing, Einstein, Bohr, Planck, Heisenberg, Schrýdinger, etc, etc... the list goes on

The sublime beauty of this book serves to elucidate the "new physics" of quantum theory, particle physics, and relativity within the context of Eastern spiritual philosophies. Though, not to the degree The Tao of Physics, by Fritjof Capra did when first published in 1975. I find The Dancing WuLi Masters a more accessible experience then The Tao of Physics in that it reads and feels like a natural process of discovery and confirmation, as opposed to an academic correlation. The books does a good job of explaining esoteric and complex concepts in easily understood terms though if the reader is not already somewhat familiar and interested in the subject matter an attempt to read it could prove to be an exercise in abject futility.

This is not a casual read for someone who knows nothing of the Quantum Sciences. Nor is it a casual read for someone who knows nothing of the Eastern philosophies of Buddhism, Taoism, or Hinduism even though [...] it only makes up about 5% of the content. I found this book to be very beautiful... It had a life changing impact for me in that it set in motion an interest that lead to the reading of the works of some of our planets greatest scientists, philosophers, and spiritual leaders... Which lead to a greater understanding of myself, and my spiritual journey.

[...]

This book was like a light in the dark... an epiphany that set the wheel in motion... the first step in the journey of a thousand steps... To Gary Zukav I will be forever grateful for this book a treatise unifying the mind and spirit... as important to the intellect as the soul.

This book has great intellectual merit if you are interested in the subject matter. If the subject matter appeal to your intellect and your spirit is open the merit of the content of each page is infinite. It is unfortunate for those who have read the pages and missed the message.

I was hoping for something much more layman in explaining the great quantum physics. It is not an easy read. I have found other books that were more easy to read on the subject.

Gary Zukav states in his introduction "I had never studied physics. In fact I didn't like science and I had no mathematical aptitude.

On Opra (TV) he admitted that he does not have a TV which may explain his lack of contemporary physics let alone any depth.

I noticed that some reviewers refer to the "New Physics" is that like "New Age" or voodoo physics?

90% of the matter must be missing from this book. Or else how can he take physics out of context and make such fantastic leaps to religions parallels that he knows little of. He even twists the religion around to serve some unknown purpose.

Many people say they did not understand physics until this book; Surprises, you still do not. You now know what Zukav wished physics was. Take anti-mater for instants that does not mean the opposite of mater. And the relationship between particles has no correlation with the relationship of dogs and cats.

At least get it straight before mixing it up. Try reading some of these:
"The Ascent of Man by Jacob Bronowski". The book available everywhere the DVD's available from the UK.

"The Upanishads" by Eknath Easwaran (Editor), Michael N. Nagler (Photographer)

Or just about any mainstream material on physics and religion.

Then if you still want to mix worlds into one read someone saner:
"The Tao of Physics: An Exploration of the Parallels between Modern Physics and Eastern Mysticism" by Fritjof Capra.

Also on the fringe but not as radical as Zukav is a series called "What the Bleep." (both in books and on video)

I the person that wrote this does not have a TV which expels his lack of contemporary physics let alone any depth. I noticed that some reviewers refer to the "New Physics" is that like "New Age" or voodoo physics?

90% of the matter must be missing from this book. Or how else can he take physics out of context and make such fantastic leaps to religions that he knows little of. He even twists the religion around to serve some unknown purpose.

Many people say they did not understand physics until this book; Surprises, you still do not. You now know what Zukav wished physics was. Take anti-mater for instants that does not mean the opposite of mater. And the relationship between particles has no correlation with the relationship of dogs and cats.

At least get it straight before mixing it up. Try reading some of these:
"The Ascent of Man by Jacob Bronowski". The book available everywhere the DVD's available from the UK.
"The Upanishads" by Eknath Easwaran (Editor), Michael N. Nagler (Photographer)

Or just about any mainstream material on physics and religion.

Then if you still want to mix worlds into one read someone saner:
"The Tao of Physics: An Exploration of the Parallels Between Modern Physics and Eastern Mysticism" by Fritjof Capra.

I wish I had this book to read as a companion piece when I took Basic Physics 102 when I was in college. At my college, Basic Physics 101 was an introduction to the Newtonian approach to explaining the universe and Basic Physics 102 was an introduction to Quantum Mechanics. I think Gary Zukav's book would make a nice companion reading to the basic college text book on Quantum Mechanics.

The book is well written, relatively clear even when he is explaining highly complex and abstract concepts. However, every now and then Gary Zukav gets too speculatives and over interpretes.

Whereas the book starts out with assetions that linkages would be made between Eastern mysticism and Quantum Mechanics, the book is basically 95% Quantum Mechanics and 5% Eastern mysticism and Gary Zukav does not always make convincing arguments as to how the two are tied together.

First let me start by saying that I, as a layman, enjoyed this book intensely. I don't have a degree in Physics by any stretch of the imagination, rather I have a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, which is a nice way of saying I have a little bit of knowledge about everything.

I was given this book as a gift by a friend of mine who is deep into "New Age" writing. I was told that Zukav's writing style is dry, and though I can't confirm or deny that statement, I haven't read any of his other work, I found this book to be witty and engaging. I'll agree with certain other reviewers in saying that his attempts to unite certain Eastern philosophies with modern Quantum Mechanics seem somewhat contrived and at times bewildering. The world he describes is truly pure enchantment, but based on his credentials I now wonder if its his fantasy about Quantum Physics or a factual description of Quantum phenomena.

In the end, the major thing this book accomplished is whetting my appetite. Due to the exquisite writing and poetic descriptions in this book, I've chosen to look into Quantum Mechanics more closely with books by actual Quantum Physicist. I'm steadily considering continuing my education in the field, perhaps choosing a career in it if it continues to fascinate.

Taking a subject like Quantum Mechanics and explaining what it is all about is a difficult task. The author has achieved that difficult task without the use of equations and symbols. When I first started reading the book my initial impression was that it was going to be a whole bunch of philosophical mumbo jumbo. By the time I finished reading it (it took me a couple of months), I was very much impressed with Gary Zukav's ability to cover all the major aspects of quantum mechanics and in covering the contributions of the physicists behind quantum theory in an easy to understand language without having to resort to equations and symbols. My only gripe about the book is that every chapter is numbered as chapter 1 in order to make some point about Chinese philosophers. Many people are used to keeping track of which chapter they have read or are reading by remembering chapter numbers. But using a bookmark solved that problem for me.

I did not have the problems that the last two or three reviewers had. The part of the book that mentions the Dancing Wu Lei Masters was an analogy. I happen to like analogies and I understood completely why he used it. I also have a very open mind. Think of everything in this book as a theory, as a possiblity, as a chance and an excuse to stretch your imagination. The author, in my opinion has a way with words and breadth of vision which to my mind is a formula for some pretty exiciting writing. He is able to make associations that actually make sense (to me anyway). I found his descriptions easy to understand and I had no trouble with the prose. You know I wish I could read a physics book and learn about physics but then there's the math thing...and is it me or are those books incredibly dry? To all the scientist that read these reviews...of course this book isn't going to appeal to you....you know the math!! Some of us aren't blessed with that ability or the inclination. I am grateful to the writer of this book. I found it riveting, enjoyable and incredibly facinating. The analogies made it fun and everyone knows the best teachers make their subject enjoyable and interesting. This author has definately done that for me. If you have trouble with abstract concepts and/or are offended by the integration of science and philosophy you may not want to waste your money and perhaps go to a college bookstore instead.

This book is a reminder of why non-physicists ought not to be in the business of explaining physics. It might be easier to use physics to illuminate the Tao than Taoism to find physics. In this context, modern physics is a specific description of all that is. The Tao, on the other hand, is a generality which may be affirmed or denied by the specific but which does not encompass the level of detail needed to arrive at the specific. This is why Gary Zukav so often loses his way. (Pardon the pun.) He suffers from the standard American aversion for even the simplest mathematics. As a result his description of the macro world, in which the interactions of forces and particles appear deterministic, are sometimes awkward and always inelegant. Once we enter the quantum world of Einstein's dice throwing God, Zukav loses the distinction between physics and metaphysics. The world is neither the predetermined clockwork envisioned by Descartes and his friends nor a collection of anthropomorphic particles dancing to the Wu Li Waltz. Unlike Gary Zukav and his intended readership, I am quite comfortable with a universe that cannot be explained without random variables. The Dancing Wu Li Masters might be satisfactory for those who need a spoonful of philosophy to make the physics go down were it not that the physics being swallowed is wrong.

There are not too many books that can satisfy everybody. This book is for the whole family- scientists, lay-men, the religious aunt and the rebel teenager can enjoy this book equally.

I read this book when it was new, and found it entertaining. I didn't think much more about it after that. Then I came upon a reference to it in one of Gardner's books concerning bad science. Looking back at it knowing so much more now, I agree, it's borderline nonsence. E.g. electrons don't "think" about making a choice about which way to go; they enter into superposition.

Do you want to understand all the mysteries of the universe? Hoping to discover the essence of existence? Well, if you desire to do anything along these lines, there are certainly worse ways to start than through reading The Dancing Wu Li Masters: An Overview of the New Physics by Gary Zukav.

This information-packed book represents the pinnacle of popular science achievement, as it provides a gentle guide for the average reader through the intellectual minefield of modern physics from quantum mechanics to relativity. Rather than bogging down the reader with dozens of equations and complicated graphs, Zukav chooses to demonstrate the concepts of new-age physics through metaphors, diagrams, and an explanation of the thought processes that led to such startling theories as the Theory of General Relativity and Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle. Sure, Zukav may explain the experiments that confirm the viability of a theory, but he doesn't force you to sift through the data; instead, writes in plain English while including lots of easily-followed, pretty pictures. Particularly for a high school student without too much exposure to physics, this style provides an excellent overview of the most interesting, cutting-edge ideas in science.
Zukav's subject-matter couldn't be more interesting: using the backdrop of Eastern philosophies to better link physical concepts to ideas more compatible to the human mindset, he breezes through Newtonian physics, quantum mechanics, and both theories of relativity in just a little over 300 pages. Zukav also admirably presents the problem of the irreconcilability of quantum mechanics with relativity, which bothered Einstein to his dying days. While none of these concepts is dealt with entirely thoroughly (it is a short book), the book is an enjoyable and easily understandable introduction to one of the most difficult fields mankind has to offer

At the same time, Zukav's book is not perfect. For one thing, the book is rather dated; he doesn't even deal with String Theory, which was by and large developed after the publication of this book. At the same time, the absence of String Theory may be advantageous to the reader who knows little about physics, since the five separate String Theories are both difficult to understand and incredibly theoretical (that is, no physicist has been able to design an experiment that actually produces data to prove String Theory, which means that the concept is rather ephemeral and hard to describe in a concrete way; for more on this, see http://arxiv.org/abs/physics/0311047). Further, the whole Zen thing seems a little excessive. Sure, Eastern philosophies are generally conducive to modern physics in that Eastern philosophers have always realized that sometimes the human mind can't comprehend everything at once, but the fact is that people reading this book probably aren't doing so to learn about "Wu Li" ("The Way"); they're reading it to learn about "New Physics."

Despite these minor deficiencies, though, this book does a good job of explaining very difficult concepts to a "normal" reader. There was a time when only the very top physicists in the world understood Einstein's theories of relativity, but books like The Dancing Wu Li Masters have helped rectify this problem by making complicated physics accessible to the general public.

Until last fall, I wasn't a science person at all. At college, I majored in English Lit, minored in Music and Philosophy and did my best to avoid anything slightly scientific.

But then one night last October when I couldn't sleep, I stayed up flipping channels and came across Brian Greene's Nova program THE ELEGANT UNIVERSE. I saw it was about Physics, and almost hit the clicker, but something about the presentation made me curious to watch a little more.

Within an hour, I was a new Physics convert. If you interested in language, art, and the disciplines of beauty, you can't help but be mesmerized by Quantum mechanics, string theory, and all of the cutting edge theories of physical world represented in Brian Greene's program.

The next time I was at a bookstore, I tried to pick up a copy of the book the NOVA show was based on, but they were sold out, so I scoured the Physics section and found a copy of Gary Zukav's THE DANCING WU-LI MASTERS, instead.

Written back in the late seventies, Zukav's book is one of the first popular mainstream explications of modern theoretical physics for the lay, non-science person, like myself. I found it fascinating, and for the most part very easy to follow.

Zukav writes in a clear and compelling manner about the wonderful mysteries of the universe. He covers the history of how theoretical Physics got to where it is today (or at least was in the late seventies). He explains Einstein's major contributions to science in a few easy to follow chapters, and then goes on to skillfully explain the inexplicable conundrums of quantum theory.

As Zukav describes probability theory, he makes a convincing case that modern Physics isn't that different from Zen Buddhism. He shows how the steel-and-concrete building blocks that make up our universe are actually a lot more fluid and suggetable than common sense would dictate.

This books really helps you recover any amazement and wonder you might have lost in the everyday world around you.

Check this book out if you think you're not a science person, and if you like it, also get Brian Greene's THE ELEGANT UNIVERSE. Theoretical Physics is pretty literally the stuff dreams are made of.

Wu Li Masters is more lucid than "A Brief History of Time" and "The Elegant Universe" combined in explaining Quantum Mechanics and Relativity, both of which are great books. Don't buy this book for a Eastern Religion/Physics connection (it's not very good), and don't buy this book to learn more about actual Wu Li Masters. Buy this book if you actually want to understand 20th century physics.

be very careful of trying to understand quantum mechanics (and all facets of science, for that matter) in terms of it being "like" something else. QM/QEM is not "like" anything, it simply is itself, which is why it is one of the most difficult branches of science to apprehend. it is vastly complex, truly bizarre in some regards, but quite logical and beautiful in its equations. this book may be a decent book to spark a layman's interest in the subject, but it is vastly inept in describing anything. especially obnoxious are the constant assertions that science and faith are the same thing because QM states nothing can be known to have "certainty", sweeping aside the obvious logical flaw that faith is a type of absolute certainty. i recommend that to TRULY get a grasp on QM, one begins by reading books written by actual, real live (or dead) physicysts. i cannot argue against THIS book enough. the philosophical implications of QM ARE important, but not in this neatly packaged and trite fashion. look elsewhere.

Quantum mechanics, Zukav tells us reveal the fundamental flaws of wester logic. Whether what is happening at the subatomic level is real or not is not the issue, the issue is that physicists like Einstein, Plank, and Bell have told us that our language is limited in describing the seemingly paradoxical nature of the quantum world. This book shows us that science has proven its own impotence in the face of such "nonsensical" physical phenomenon at the quantum level and that the only truth that one can get at lies in experience itself and not in theory.

Eastern philosophy is not based upon Western notions of absolute faith in a higher being, because that would mean that God is something apart from ourselves, or dualism, which is what quantum mechanics refutes. Eastern philosophies like Hinduism and Buddhism are similar to quantum mechanics in that they focus on the interconnectedness, or the oneness of all things, which is what actually occurs at the quantum level. Eastern thought claims that truth lies in experience and intuition not in theory or language because language and theories are only symbols of the real thing and not the real thing itself. Many physicists are loath to make connections between Eastern philosophy and physics, dismissing Buddhism as unprovable mysticism. And yet the great physicists of the twentieth century have proven that paradox is the nature of quantum mechanics. Therefore, our regular ways of thinking about reality cannot adequately explain the mysteries of the subatomic world, because the only real answers are those that lie within experience and not theory. But don't take it from me. Read the book, and Zukav will explain it himself.

If you need a book that will explain, in a clear and detailed way, quantum mechanics, look no farther! Easy to read and fascinating. EXCELLENT!

I read this book back in 1984 or 1985 on the advice of my chemistry professor. I simply was "not getting" the quantum physics. It is an introduction to physics in the vein of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle repair. I think this book should be required reading for Freshmen.

This book is THE book to read for those who are not familiar with complex math, but are interested in the basic principles of quantum physics. First, I must say that anyone who gives this book a bad rating has either not understood any of the material or not read the book at all. It covers all aspects of basic quantum theory from the first beginnings of it (Plank's constant, discovery of quanta through study of Black-body radiation; wave-particle duality, Heisenburg's uncertainty principle, Schrodinger's wave equation & wave functions, etc...) to relatively newer quantum theory (the Space-Time Continuum, Black Holes, Bell's theorum, quantum logic, etc...) as best as english (combined with articulate diagrams) can describe WITHOUT MATH. This book contains the best desciption and examples of Einstein's Special and General Theories of Relativity that I have ever UNDERSTOOD. Coupled with Zukav's amiable style this book is an extreme pleasure to read. One thing I found foresightful was that many parts of the book have footnotes that are written by physists who previewed the book and expounded upon the writing therein with by clarifying concepts for those who are familiar with physics and math already. 95% of this book is about understanding these new ideas (more specifically being led upon the road to experience and understanding rather than having things crammed into your brain just to be regurgitated into nothingness) and 5% (in the introduction and last chapter mostly) about how this "New Physics" coorelates to eastern religious views (NOT NEW AGE RELIGION) that have been in practice for thousands of years. The book comes complete with bibliography of all the literature Zukav has referenced in his own quest to understand quantum physics and the nature of reality and a extremely complete index that is very useful when you need it. Over all this book was relatively very easy to read (when it comes to science books) and I would recommend it to anyone who is curious about how reality is defined.

Very nice and easy introduction to modern Physics which includes Relativity and Quantum physics and beyond. It is a nice book for someone who does not have Physics background but interested to know things.

this book explained in a simple way, many of the complex matters of the new physics and got me thinking alot. this boook was not only educationally stimulating but spiritually as well, and i plan to pursue the topics of enlightenment and the concepts of the new physics with more books like this one. i highly recomend it. if i may also recomend, the tao of pooh by benjamin hoff.

One day, years after obtaining my science degree, someone asked me, has anyone ever seen an atom? "That depends..." started my embarrassed answer to a question that I should have known, but did not.

So began my interest and second attempt to navigate the impenetrable jungle known as physics - or as Gary Zukav implies - better descibed as philosophy. How else can you describe a scientific endeavour in which you cannot even see your subject. Religion? Perhaps.

This book successfully establishes that physics when looked at with an oblique, nonscientific eye, is not what you were taught at school.

School physics is about why the chair you sit on does not collapse. Philosophy is about why you sat down in that chair - but 'out of school physics' is all about 'are you really sitting in a chair, or is something else at work here?'

Consider, the visible mass of the chair is one trillionth of the overall structure. What's the rest? Forces? What forces? The answer is that no-one really knows, but physics speculates what where and why they are there; and speculation ends up in strange places. Multiple Universes, 11 dimensional worlds - these are not the ideas of Star Trek - this is the reality of Physics, this is what we are. A friend may look fat, but remove the empty space secreted away in the atom, and that friend would not be visible with the naked eye, or a telescope or a microscope. Interesting? Magic? No, just physics.
Gary Zukov cries out from this wilderness, look everyone, look what I've found - physics is the most astounding subject in the world!. His book expands clearly on this theme. A great introductory read.