The Tao of Physics

An updated 50th anniversary edition of the bestselling classic on the extraordinary relationship between modern physics and Eastern philosophy.


Fritjof Capra brought the mystical implications of subatomic physics to popular consciousness for the very first time back in 1975. Many books have been written in the ensuing years about the connections between quantum theory and the ideas of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Taoism, but The Tao of Physics serves as the foundation on which the others have been built, and its wisdom has stood the test of time. Its publication in over twenty languages stands as testimony to its universal applicability and enduring significance. This special edition celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of the perennial classic and includes new material by the author—a preface, an updated afterword, and a postscript—reflecting on further discoveries and developments in the years since the book’s initial publication.“A brilliant best-seller. . . . Lucidly analyzes the tenets of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism to show their striking parallels with the latest discoveries in cyclotrons.”
—New York Magazine

“A pioneering book of real value and wide appeal.”
—Washington Post

“Fritjof Capra, in The Tao of Physics , seeks . . . an integration of the mathematical world view of modern physics and the mystical visions of Buddha and Krishna. Where others have failed miserably in trying to unite these seemingly different world views, Capra, a high-energy theorist, has succeeded admirably. I strongly recommend the book to both layman and scientist.”
—V. N. Mansfield, Physics Today

“I have been reading the book with amazement and the greatest interest, recommending it to everyone I meet, and as often as possible, in my lectures. I think [Capra has] done a magnificent and extremely important job.”
—Joseph CampbellFritjof Capra has done research in theoretical high-energy physics at the University of Paris; the University of California; Stanford University; and Imperial College, London. He holds a PhD from the University of Vienna. Dr. Capra is the author of five international best sellers: The Tao of Physics (1975), The Turning Point (1982), Uncommon Wisdom (1988), The Web of Life (1996), and The Hidden Connections (2002).50th anniversary edition