Nonspecialists with no prior knowledge of physics and only reasonable proficiency with algebra can now understand Einstein's special theory of relativity. Effectively diagrammed and with an emphasis on logical structure, Leo Sartori's rigorous but simple presentation will guide interested readers through concepts of relative time and relative space.

Sartori covers general relativity and cosmology, but focuses on Einstein's theory. He tracks its history and implications. He explores illuminating paradoxes, including the famous twin paradox, the "pole-in-the-barn" paradox, and the Loedel diagram, which is an accessible, graphic approach to relativity. Students of the history and philosophy of science will welcome this concise introduction to the central concept of modern physics.

Leo Sartori is Professor of Physics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

“This excellent modern elementary exposition of special relativity, general relativity, and relativistic cosmology is suitable for . . . students in physics and related fields [and] the scientifically inclined general reader.”—Choice

“With a little background in algebra and an interest in comprehending what seem to be counterintuitive ideas about time, space, and energy, the nonspecialist should be able to grasp Sartori's presentation of Einstein's relativity theory. . . . Exhaustive analyses of the relativity of simultaneity and of time dilation and length contraction form the backbone of the book.”—Science News

"An extraordinarily well-written, well-researched, and carefully thought out piece of work. . . . The discussions of the paradoxes of relativity and of cosmology are the best discussions of these topics at an elementary level that I have ever seen."—Roger A. Freedman, University of California, Santa Barbara

Choice Outstanding Academic Book