A thorough, illuminating exploration of the most consequential controversy raging in modern science. --New York Times Book ReviewEvery physicist agrees quantum mechanics is among humanitys finest scientific achievements. But ask what it means, and the result will be a brawl. For a century, most physicists have followed Niels Bohrs solipsistic and poorly reasoned Copenhagen interpretation. Indeed, questioning it has long meant professional ruin, yet some daring physicists, such as John Bell, David Bohm, and Hugh Everett, persisted in seeking the true meaning of quantum mechanics. What Is Real? is the gripping story of this battle of ideas and the courageous scientists who dared to stand up for truth.An excellent, accessible account. --Wall Street JournalSplendid. . . . Deeply detailed research, accompanied by charming anecdotes about the scientists. --Washington PostAbout the AuthorAdam Becker is a science writer with a PhD in astrophysics. He has written for the New York Times, the BBC, NPR, Scientific American, New Scientist, and other publications. He is a visiting scholar at University of California, Berkeleys Office for History of Science and Technology. He lives in California.