Letters from an Astrophysicist

Great Read to Learn a Little About Neil Degrasse Tyson

It was a great and quick read. I enjoyed reading the letters and his replies. I liked that when people would try and one up him he would come back with facts to prove them wrong. As a librarian that is amazing!

I appreciate that Neil DeGrasse Tyson would be candid enough to share some revealing exchanges from over the many years of his correspondence with his audience. Most of the interactions echo a debate between belief and science even though Dr. Tyson categorizes them into four general themes. For some, reading this book will challenge and even offend. Tyson is direct in these communications and delivers truth bombs wrapped in reason, logic, and hope. It is remarkable that he even confronts so many doubters of science; as if the more he shows how science has answered bigger questions the more he rouses the ire of those looking to a higher power for all their answers. It is refreshing that his responses are principled and reasoned while avoiding ad hominem attacks. In a way he leaves room for belief but one grounded in the limitless possibilities of a scientific society. The metaphysical in his worldview is reflected in the awe of the cosmos and how understanding it makes it easier to understand and deal with everyday life.