Cosmos

I read this before, but cannot find that copy; so I ordered this copy for my library. If the movie had stuck to Carl Sagon's novel, instead of deviating to extraneous religious nonsense, more people would want to read the novel after seeing the movie. The novel is so much better than the movie of the same name.

I have always been a Carl Sagan fan. We had this book when my children were young and lost it during a move. I've been able to get it again from this great vendor, thank you so much. I read all of Carl Sagan's books as he is so good with popular science.

I bought this because I want my kids to see it as young as possible, even before they learn to speak english. The spanish audio is excelent. The translation of the ideas and scientific concepts dead on. Its hard to try to get the genius and passion that Carl Sagan transmits in the original english, but I think this is as close as it gets.

The three stars I give this book is not so much a complaint about the book itself, but rather a warning that this book has been passed by. There are better books out now because the science has moved beyond what is in this book. We know more than we did. However, it is still a terrific introduction by a brilliant author. I would just look elsewhere for a more up to date introduction. Specifically, look toward Greene.

This edition should be commended for its use of pictures which help those, such as myself, who are not familiar with some of the cosmology. However, the use of imagery comes at a price. This book is based on a documentary. So, the formatting can make for some awkward reading as the book is broken up frequently. However, I doubt many people will find this to be a real challenge.

i love the book itself, it is the presentation of it on the kindle that is poor.

The book description references illustrations that are not there. There is no index. This is not the table of contents. I enjoyed the hardcover I got at the library book sale much more than this. To be fair, I suspect the mass market paperback is missing the illustrations as well.

Reviews would be more useful if they were separated by the edition. As it is my unimpressed review of the kindle edition may reflect badly on the other editions.

I received the book in great condition for buying it used. However I purchased a paperback copy and received a hardback copy instead. Normally this wouldn't be an issue, because having a hardback is nice, but the hardback addition is the size of a textbook and its very awkward to hold and kind of ruins the whole "book" experience and makes me not want to read it even though its the same book..

This book is a great resource for those interested in our origins, present and future! Sagan takes the reader from the Big Bang through our species's technological awakening. The information I learned in this book has changed the way I view the evening sky!

If you are looking for an excellent astronomy book, this is the one to go to. Carl Sagan is a master of words and explaining some very complex topics. This is the first book I have read by Sagan, and I was amazed. This book is an excellent read, but I would suggest not getting the Kindle version. It was not put together with much thought. I ended up purchasing a paperback format afterwards to finish reading. Other than that EXCELLENT book (like I haven't said that enough).

This is an interesting book. However, since it was written there have been so many advances in science the book has a "looking over your shoulder" quality. The exploration of Mars being a good example. We simply know more today about Mars than when Cosmos was written.

A pleasure to read, even if some passages sound slughtly preachy. However, it is moving to see how far-dichtes the author was, especially as we witness the first landing of an unmanbed spacecraft on a meteriote (Rosetta).

COSMOS BY CARL SAGAN IS FOR SURE THE BEST SCIENCE TV SERIES EVER! THIS IS ALSO ONE OF THE FEW CASES THAT THE TV SHOW IS BETTER THAN THE BOOK. I AM NOT SAYING THE BOOK IS BAD, NO, THE BOOK IS GREAT BUT THE TV SERIES IS EVEN BETTER. THERE ARE SOME REASONS WHY COSMOS, A 30 YEARS OLD PROGRAM, STILL HAS SOME MAGIC. FIRST OF ALL, CARL SAGAN EXPLAIN SCIENCE MATTERS SO SIMPLE, AND THAT MAKES THE SERIES A GREAT GIFT NOT ONLY FOR FOR SCIENCE FANS, BUT EVERYONE. SECOND OF ALL, WHEN YOU SEE COSMOS YOU LEARN ABOUT SO MUCH THINGS: ALL THE 13 CHAPTERS ARE LIKE CLASSES OF HISTORY, GEOGRAPHY, ASTRONOMY, MATH, BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY, PHYSICS.

NOW I HAVE TO SAY THAT THIS PARTICULAR COSMOS COLLECTION IS LESS EXPENSIVE THAT OTHER ONES AND ITS CONTENTS ARE THE SAME, SO THIS IS S A GREAT CHOICE FOR YOUR ECONOMY.

FINALLY I WOULD LIKE TO SAY THAT IF YOU SPEAK SPANISH THIS IS THE BEST CHOICE FOR YOU BECAUSE YOU COULD LISTEN THIS SERIES NOT ONLY IN ENGLISH LIKE OTHER COLLECTIONS, BUT IN SPANISH OR ENGLISH.

Not realizing that this Latin import was dubbed only in Spanish I had no choice but to return it. I wish that there was something in the description outlining this fact. I had to get the more expensive version which is in several languages including English & Spanish. Love the show, not the import!

Wayne R. Boss

the product description didn't clearly indicate that this was a spanish version throughout. The cover was entirely in spanish, the menu, all of titles, the options, evertything. Ihad to run the option table, every option, make some educated guesses to disccover thar there is an english option.

30 years ago I was 14, and Cosmos changed my way to see the world. I spent my entire first salary buying the book!! Today, I see it again and remember why, and love to share it with my children. Thanks Carl, wherever you are!

The content of this book makes it a classic. But the quality of the mass market edition fails to do it justice: the print is the tiniest I have ever seen (or not seen--who knew so many words could be crowded onto a page?). The covers are the event horizon beyond which legibility disappears. The layout is perfunctory and the paper cheap. Yes, mass markets are not printed for elegance, but this one sets a new low. For a few dollars more, the paperback edition, also available from the store, provides everything you were hoping for, including a large number of high-quality illustrations and photos, that, like the much more expensive hard cover edition, creates in the reader the sense of surprise and awe that Sagan intended.

I honestly have not read it yet, but I'm sure I can give it 5 stars and not be wrong, based on what I have heard about the book and my knowledge of Carl Sagan and his unique way to describe the universe. I can quite confidently recommend this book!

I bought this book for grandfather for Christmas this year. Carl Sagan is one of his favorite authors. He enjoys the book very much. However, the binding of the book is too tight. It makes reading the pages on the left hard. We both agree that it's better to look at the books in a store rather than ordering them online.

Honestly the only reason why I don't give it 1 star is because I assume that the content is somewhat accurate. The book has multiple typos and in some occasions, instead of letters it has signs like exclamation signs and brackets.

The two most disappointing parts are: 1) it doesn't have neither a table of contents nor page number, and 2) The book mentions many times figures and tables that are not shown.

Actually, you know what, this is unacceptable. I'm giving it 1 star only.

Not recommended

I ordered this set on April 12, 2012. I got it an hour ago. Imagine my annoyance to discover that the store sent me a Spanish language version. On the the store site, two versions
(with identical covers), are listed. The one I ordered and the "Imported Latino Version", that I actually received. I'm frankly mad as hell. I will have to make a special trip to the
post-office or UPS store. Worse, other customers have also been burned on this. When is the store going to fix this listing?

While I'm in a complaining mood, I'll also mention that the video quality is fairly poor. I suppose that this is a natural consequence of putting 780 minutes of video on just 4 DVD's. Soft focus and weak colors aside, it's still a great series. But, a set with an episode list I cannot even read, is not exceptable. Sorry the store, I think the world of your service generally, but you blew this one.

When Carl Sagan can contain his hatred of religion, the book is inspiring, engaging and interesting.
However, if you are a believer, be prepared to have your religious beliefs called mere "superstition" and the like over and over.
For a proponent of having an open mind, Mr. Sagan seems to be pretty intolerant of religion.
I also find it interesting that Mr. Sagan, who was of Jewish descent, fails to criticize Judaism but has nothing but bad things to say about Christianity and especially the Catholic church.

I have owned this book since it first came out in April 1983. It is a marvelous book that is nicely illustrated and it is well written. I treat this book like my great grand children in that I protect it and treat it with care. It looks like it did the first day that I purchased it.

I was fascinated with Carl Sagan's TV series and as a result I purchased this book as a reference guide. I am fascinated by the beautiful photos in the book and even the historical ones regarding the past contributors to the science of astrology. This book for me is one of those must have books if you love science and history. Carl's writing just flows in the book and it is so educational and interesting.

I get this book out and scan through it often. It is one of my favorite books and I enjoy reading it and having it. It will become a gift to one of my grandsons to stay in the family for generations to enjoy. I enjoyed the TV series and I love this book.

Carl Edward Sagan (1934-1996) wrote numerous popular science books in addition to this one, which accompanied the PBS television series ], which was the most widely watched series in the history of American public television. He wrote in the Introduction to this 1980 book, "The book and the television series evolved together. In some sense each is based on the other. Many illustrations in this book are based on the striking visuals prepared for the television series... This book goes more deeply into many topics than does the television series. There are topics discussed in the book which are not treated in the television series, and vice versa." (Pg. xv)

He starts out with his famous phrase, "The Cosmos is all that is or ever was or ever will be." (Pg. 4; this was an intentional usage of the verbiage of the Christian "Gloria Patri" prayer.) He never actually used the phrase, "billions and billions" in either the book or the TV series, however (although he did say "A galaxy is composed of ... billions UPON billions of stars"; pg. 5).

He notes about Columbus' voyage: "Columbus' first voyage is connected ... with the calculations of Eratosthenes... Columbus had been an itinerant peddler of old maps and an assiduous reader of the books by and about the ancient geographers... But for the enterprise of the Indies to work, for ships and crews to survive the long voyage, the Earth had to be smaller than Eratosthenes had said. Columbus therefore cheated on his calculations, as the examining faculty of the University of Salamanca quite correctly pointed out. He used the smallest possible circumference of the Earth and the greatest extension of Asia he could find, and then exaggerated even those. Had the Americas not been in the way, Columbus' expeditions would have failed utterly." (Pg. 16-17)

He suggests, "The fossil evidence could be consistent with the idea of a Great Designer; perhaps some species are destroyed when the Designer becomes dissatisfied with them, and all new experiments are attempted on an improved design. But this notion is a little disconcerting. Each plant and animal is exquisitely made; should not a supremely competent Designer have been able to make the intended variety from the start? The fossil record implies trial and error, an inability to anticipate the future, features inconsistent with an efficient Great Designer (although not with a Designer of a more remote and indirect temperament]." (Pg. 29)

He notes, "Astrology can be tested by the lives of twins. There are many cases in which one twin is killed in childhood, in a riding accident, say, or is struck by lightning, while the other lives to a prosperous old age. Each was born in precisely the same place with within minutes of each other. Exactly the same planets were rising at their births. If astrology were valid, how could two such twins have such profoundly different fates? It also turns out that astrologers cannot even agree among themselves on what a given horoscope means. In careful tests, they are unable to predict the character and future of people they know nothing about except their time on earth." (Pg. 49-50)

He explains, "If the general picture of an expanding universe and a Big Bang is correct, we must then confront still more difficult questions. What were conditions like at the time of the Big Bang? What happened before that? Was there a tiny universe, devoid of all matter, and then the matter suddenly created from nothing? How does THAT happen? In many cultures it is customary to answer that God created the universe out of nothing. But this is mere temporizing. If we wish courageously to pursue the question, we must of course ask next where God comes from. And it we decide this to be unanswerable, why not save a step and decide that the origin of the universe is an unanswerable question? Or, if we say that God has always existed, why not save a step and conclude that the universe has always existed?" (Pg. 257)

He adds, "Very likely, the universe has been expanding since the Big Bang, but it is by no means clear that it will continue to expand forever. The expansion may gradually slow, stop and reverse itself. If there is less than a certain critical amount of matter in the universe, the gravitation of the receding galaxies will be insufficient to stop the expansion, and the universe will run away forever. But if there is more matter than we can see---hidden away in black holes, say, or in hot but invisible gas between the galaxies---then the universe will hold together gravitationally and partake of a very Indian succession of cycles, followed by contraction... without end. If we live in such an oscillating universe, then the Big Bang is ... merely the end of the previous cycle..." (Pg. 259)

He points out, "A standard motif in science fiction and UFO literature assumes extraterrestrials roughly as capable as we. Perhaps they have a different sort of spaceship or ray gun, but in battle---and science fiction loves to portray battles between civilizations---they and we are rather evenly matched. In fact, there is almost no chance that two galactic civilizations will interact at the same level. In any confrontation, one will always utterly dominate the other. A million years is a great many. If an advanced civilization were to arrive in our solar system, there would be nothing whatever we could do about it. Their science and technology would be far beyond ours." (Pg. 311)

He says, "The last scientist who worked in the Library [of Alexandria] was a mathematician, astronomer, physicist and the head of the Neoplatonic school of philosophy... Her name was Hypatia... Cyril, the Archbishop of Alexandria, despised her because of her close friendship with the Roman governor, and because she was a symbol of learning and science... in the year 415... she was set upon by a fanatical mob of Cyril's parishioners. They dragged her from her chariot, tore off her clothes, and ... flayed her flesh from her bones. Her remains were burned, her works obliterated, her name forgotten. Cyril was made a saint." (Pg. 335-336)

This book remains a monument to how science can be presented in a "popular" way to a mass audience, without oversimplifying the material. Anyone with even the remotest interest in science should read (and appreciate!) this book.

As I was raised in a conservative environment, the name Carl Sagan was demonized in my younger years. Just as his pupil, Neil DeGrasse Tyson is eschewed by religious groups today, so too was Sagan despised back in the 1980s. So, what was Sagan's crime? What is Tyson's crime? Both are one-in-the-same: a yearning to bring science out of its esoteric domain and make it more accessible to the general public. In short, they wanted to make science (gasp!) mainstream.

Sagan wrote his book for all people to gain a sense of awe of the universe that surrounds us. This review, on the other hand, is geared towards people who have a genuine interest in science. Sagan has had a profound influence on my life and he coerced me to "grow up" from the simple minded religious paradigm I was told to adhere to as a child and instead look at the world through the rational paradigm of science and logic. For that, I am indebted to the late Cornell professor of astronomy.

One of the pressing questions that many might have is this: if they have seen or if they even own (as I do) the 1980s PBS series COSMOS on DVD, is it still worthwhile to read the book? The answer is.....YES!! To be sure, there is much overlap between the PBS series & the paperback, but there is also stuff in the book that is not in the series (and vice versa).

Since the 1980s, there are some updates that Sagan would make were he to write the book today. First off, exoplanets were a scientific hypothetical 30yrs ago; nobody knew for sure if they existed. Starting in the mid 1990s, exoplanets were realized as being a scientific fact. First, astronomers could only locate very large exoplanets (some of which are several times the size of Jupiter). Over time, they have refined their techniques and have found much smaller exoplanets ~ some of which could possibly even harbor life. The discovery of exoplanets has led to the fastest growing field in the realm of astronomy today.

Clearly, even to we laymen, exoplanets should not be a surprise. It is only religious types who have wanted to think of our solar system as "unique." For people who are alive right now, just think about this: future generations will look back @ this time in which we located exoplanets in the same manner that we look back upon Galileo and his jubilation at finding the moons of Jupiter. Sagan muses about the possibility of exoplanets in the book; oh, if only he could be around today to share in the process of their discovery!

Sagan also expresses how he would like to send a probe to the moon of Saturn known as Titan as well as sending a rover to Mars. Both of these dreams have been realized since his death in the early 90s. Recently, the Cassini spacecraft released a probe named after one of Sagan's heroes: Van Huygens. It safely touched down on Titan and we have pictures & data from one of only 4 rocky worlds in our solar system which have an atmosphere (Venus, Earth & Mars are the other 3). We have also sent the CURIOSITY rover to Mars & it has taught us much.

When it comes to the notion of extra terrestrial intelligence, we don't know anything more about the topic than we did back in the 1980s. That is, with the exception of the fact that we have located expolanets that are the correct size that reside in the so-called "Goldilox Zone" of their respective yellow suns. One correction that does need to be taken is with the Drake equation which Sagan summoned with the efficacy of figuring how how much life there could statistically be in the Milky Way. The Drake equation did not factor in plate tectonics, which is critical for the evolution of life on Earth.

None of this is meant as a criticism of Sagan. To the contrary, Sagan relished advancements in science and embraced refinements to the scientific paradigm. Unlike the religious types who have always loathed him (and always will), Sagan prided himself on being an open-minded scientist. If only the rest of us could attempt to be more like the late Carl Sagan, the world would be a much, much better place.

The very fact that there are myriad more people who are scientifically literate today than back in the 1970s is a testament to the pioneering efforts of Carl Sagan. His colleagues such as Stephen Weinberg, Freeman Dyson, Stephen Hawking, Stephen J. Gould, Richard Dawkins, Harold Morowitz and others have all followed his lead in writing books on science that are written for the layman. That fact alone makes Carl Sagan one of the most notable scientists of the past few hundred years.

An influencer on the internet published that this book is one of the 8 books that everyone should read. I fully agree.
Beyond be an essential book for everyone who loves Space, it is amazing to read about Japan mythology, the Ionian (Jônicos in Portuguese), the event in Tunguska and others subjects.
The thing that had more marked me about this book is that in my undergraduate course (in 1994) a friend showed this book in the library of the Planetary of our university, and I was fascinated to have learned about the Daedalus Project of the British Interplanetary Society.
I hope you enjoy this reading. 'TripleSmiles!' Clésio

Carl Edward Sagan (1934-1996) wrote numerous popular science books in addition to this one, which accompanied the PBS television series ], which was the most widely watched series in the history of American public television. He wrote in the Introduction to this 1980 book, "The book and the television series evolved together. In some sense each is based on the other. Many illustrations in this book are based on the striking visuals prepared for the television series... This book goes more deeply into many topics than does the television series. There are topics discussed in the book which are not treated in the television series, and vice versa." (Pg. xv)

He starts out with his famous phrase, "The Cosmos is all that is or ever was or ever will be." (Pg. 4; this was an intentional usage of the verbiage of the Christian "Gloria Patri" prayer.) He never actually used the phrase, "billions and billions" in either the book or the TV series, however (although he did say "A galaxy is composed of ... billions UPON billions of stars"; pg. 5).

He notes about Columbus' voyage: "Columbus' first voyage is connected ... with the calculations of Eratosthenes... Columbus had been an itinerant peddler of old maps and an assiduous reader of the books by and about the ancient geographers... But for the enterprise of the Indies to work, for ships and crews to survive the long voyage, the Earth had to be smaller than Eratosthenes had said. Columbus therefore cheated on his calculations, as the examining faculty of the University of Salamanca quite correctly pointed out. He used the smallest possible circumference of the Earth and the greatest extension of Asia he could find, and then exaggerated even those. Had the Americas not been in the way, Columbus' expeditions would have failed utterly." (Pg. 16-17)

He suggests, "The fossil evidence could be consistent with the idea of a Great Designer; perhaps some species are destroyed when the Designer becomes dissatisfied with them, and all new experiments are attempted on an improved design. But this notion is a little disconcerting. Each plant and animal is exquisitely made; should not a supremely competent Designer have been able to make the intended variety from the start? The fossil record implies trial and error, an inability to anticipate the future, features inconsistent with an efficient Great Designer (although not with a Designer of a more remote and indirect temperament]." (Pg. 29)

He notes, "Astrology can be tested by the lives of twins. There are many cases in which one twin is killed in childhood, in a riding accident, say, or is struck by lightning, while the other lives to a prosperous old age. Each was born in precisely the same place with within minutes of each other. Exactly the same planets were rising at their births. If astrology were valid, how could two such twins have such profoundly different fates? It also turns out that astrologers cannot even agree among themselves on what a given horoscope means. In careful tests, they are unable to predict the character and future of people they know nothing about except their time on earth." (Pg. 49-50)

He explains, "If the general picture of an expanding universe and a Big Bang is correct, we must then confront still more difficult questions. What were conditions like at the time of the Big Bang? What happened before that? Was there a tiny universe, devoid of all matter, and then the matter suddenly created from nothing? How does THAT happen? In many cultures it is customary to answer that God created the universe out of nothing. But this is mere temporizing. If we wish courageously to pursue the question, we must of course ask next where God comes from. And it we decide this to be unanswerable, why not save a step and decide that the origin of the universe is an unanswerable question? Or, if we say that God has always existed, why not save a step and conclude that the universe has always existed?" (Pg. 257)

He adds, "Very likely, the universe has been expanding since the Big Bang, but it is by no means clear that it will continue to expand forever. The expansion may gradually slow, stop and reverse itself. If there is less than a certain critical amount of matter in the universe, the gravitation of the receding galaxies will be insufficient to stop the expansion, and the universe will run away forever. But if there is more matter than we can see---hidden away in black holes, say, or in hot but invisible gas between the galaxies---then the universe will hold together gravitationally and partake of a very Indian succession of cycles, followed by contraction... without end. If we live in such an oscillating universe, then the Big Bang is ... merely the end of the previous cycle..." (Pg. 259)

He points out, "A standard motif in science fiction and UFO literature assumes extraterrestrials roughly as capable as we. Perhaps they have a different sort of spaceship or ray gun, but in battle---and science fiction loves to portray battles between civilizations---they and we are rather evenly matched. In fact, there is almost no chance that two galactic civilizations will interact at the same level. In any confrontation, one will always utterly dominate the other. A million years is a great many. If an advanced civilization were to arrive in our solar system, there would be nothing whatever we could do about it. Their science and technology would be far beyond ours." (Pg. 311)

He says, "The last scientist who worked in the Library [of Alexandria] was a mathematician, astronomer, physicist and the head of the Neoplatonic school of philosophy... Her name was Hypatia... Cyril, the Archbishop of Alexandria, despised her because of her close friendship with the Roman governor, and because she was a symbol of learning and science... in the year 415... she was set upon by a fanatical mob of Cyril's parishioners. They dragged her from her chariot, tore off her clothes, and ... flayed her flesh from her bones. Her remains were burned, her works obliterated, her name forgotten. Cyril was made a saint." (Pg. 335-336)

This book remains a monument to how science can be presented in a "popular" way to a mass audience, without oversimplifying the material. Anyone with even the remotest interest in science should read (and appreciate!) this book.

Carl Edward Sagan (1934-1996) wrote numerous popular science books in addition to this one, which accompanied the PBS television series ], which was the most widely watched series in the history of American public television. He wrote in the Introduction to this 1980 book, "The book and the television series evolved together. In some sense each is based on the other. Many illustrations in this book are based on the striking visuals prepared for the television series... This book goes more deeply into many topics than does the television series. There are topics discussed in the book which are not treated in the television series, and vice versa." (Pg. xv)

He starts out with his famous phrase, "The Cosmos is all that is or ever was or ever will be." (Pg. 4; this was an intentional usage of the verbiage of the Christian "Gloria Patri" prayer.) He never actually used the phrase, "billions and billions" in either the book or the TV series, however (although he did say "A galaxy is composed of ... billions UPON billions of stars"; pg. 5).

He notes about Columbus' voyage: "Columbus' first voyage is connected ... with the calculations of Eratosthenes... Columbus had been an itinerant peddler of old maps and an assiduous reader of the books by and about the ancient geographers... But for the enterprise of the Indies to work, for ships and crews to survive the long voyage, the Earth had to be smaller than Eratosthenes had said. Columbus therefore cheated on his calculations, as the examining faculty of the University of Salamanca quite correctly pointed out. He used the smallest possible circumference of the Earth and the greatest extension of Asia he could find, and then exaggerated even those. Had the Americas not been in the way, Columbus' expeditions would have failed utterly." (Pg. 16-17)

He suggests, "The fossil evidence could be consistent with the idea of a Great Designer; perhaps some species are destroyed when the Designer becomes dissatisfied with them, and all new experiments are attempted on an improved design. But this notion is a little disconcerting. Each plant and animal is exquisitely made; should not a supremely competent Designer have been able to make the intended variety from the start? The fossil record implies trial and error, an inability to anticipate the future, features inconsistent with an efficient Great Designer (although not with a Designer of a more remote and indirect temperament]." (Pg. 29)

He notes, "Astrology can be tested by the lives of twins. There are many cases in which one twin is killed in childhood, in a riding accident, say, or is struck by lightning, while the other lives to a prosperous old age. Each was born in precisely the same place with within minutes of each other. Exactly the same planets were rising at their births. If astrology were valid, how could two such twins have such profoundly different fates? It also turns out that astrologers cannot even agree among themselves on what a given horoscope means. In careful tests, they are unable to predict the character and future of people they know nothing about except their time on earth." (Pg. 49-50)

He explains, "If the general picture of an expanding universe and a Big Bang is correct, we must then confront still more difficult questions. What were conditions like at the time of the Big Bang? What happened before that? Was there a tiny universe, devoid of all matter, and then the matter suddenly created from nothing? How does THAT happen? In many cultures it is customary to answer that God created the universe out of nothing. But this is mere temporizing. If we wish courageously to pursue the question, we must of course ask next where God comes from. And it we decide this to be unanswerable, why not save a step and decide that the origin of the universe is an unanswerable question? Or, if we say that God has always existed, why not save a step and conclude that the universe has always existed?" (Pg. 257)

He adds, "Very likely, the universe has been expanding since the Big Bang, but it is by no means clear that it will continue to expand forever. The expansion may gradually slow, stop and reverse itself. If there is less than a certain critical amount of matter in the universe, the gravitation of the receding galaxies will be insufficient to stop the expansion, and the universe will run away forever. But if there is more matter than we can see---hidden away in black holes, say, or in hot but invisible gas between the galaxies---then the universe will hold together gravitationally and partake of a very Indian succession of cycles, followed by contraction... without end. If we live in such an oscillating universe, then the Big Bang is ... merely the end of the previous cycle..." (Pg. 259)

He points out, "A standard motif in science fiction and UFO literature assumes extraterrestrials roughly as capable as we. Perhaps they have a different sort of spaceship or ray gun, but in battle---and science fiction loves to portray battles between civilizations---they and we are rather evenly matched. In fact, there is almost no chance that two galactic civilizations will interact at the same level. In any confrontation, one will always utterly dominate the other. A million years is a great many. If an advanced civilization were to arrive in our solar system, there would be nothing whatever we could do about it. Their science and technology would be far beyond ours." (Pg. 311)

He says, "The last scientist who worked in the Library [of Alexandria] was a mathematician, astronomer, physicist and the head of the Neoplatonic school of philosophy... Her name was Hypatia... Cyril, the Archbishop of Alexandria, despised her because of her close friendship with the Roman governor, and because she was a symbol of learning and science... in the year 415... she was set upon by a fanatical mob of Cyril's parishioners. They dragged her from her chariot, tore off her clothes, and ... flayed her flesh from her bones. Her remains were burned, her works obliterated, her name forgotten. Cyril was made a saint." (Pg. 335-336)

This book remains a monument to how science can be presented in a "popular" way to a mass audience, without oversimplifying the material. Anyone with even the remotest interest in science should read (and appreciate!) this book.

Carl Edward Sagan (1934-1996) wrote numerous popular science books in addition to this one, which accompanied the PBS television series ], which was the most widely watched series in the history of American public television. He wrote in the Introduction to this 1980 book, "The book and the television series evolved together. In some sense each is based on the other. Many illustrations in this book are based on the striking visuals prepared for the television series... This book goes more deeply into many topics than does the television series. There are topics discussed in the book which are not treated in the television series, and vice versa." (Pg. xv)

He starts out with his famous phrase, "The Cosmos is all that is or ever was or ever will be." (Pg. 4; this was an intentional usage of the verbiage of the Christian "Gloria Patri" prayer.) He never actually used the phrase, "billions and billions" in either the book or the TV series, however (although he did say "A galaxy is composed of ... billions UPON billions of stars"; pg. 5).

He notes about Columbus' voyage: "Columbus' first voyage is connected ... with the calculations of Eratosthenes... Columbus had been an itinerant peddler of old maps and an assiduous reader of the books by and about the ancient geographers... But for the enterprise of the Indies to work, for ships and crews to survive the long voyage, the Earth had to be smaller than Eratosthenes had said. Columbus therefore cheated on his calculations, as the examining faculty of the University of Salamanca quite correctly pointed out. He used the smallest possible circumference of the Earth and the greatest extension of Asia he could find, and then exaggerated even those. Had the Americas not been in the way, Columbus' expeditions would have failed utterly." (Pg. 16-17)

He suggests, "The fossil evidence could be consistent with the idea of a Great Designer; perhaps some species are destroyed when the Designer becomes dissatisfied with them, and all new experiments are attempted on an improved design. But this notion is a little disconcerting. Each plant and animal is exquisitely made; should not a supremely competent Designer have been able to make the intended variety from the start? The fossil record implies trial and error, an inability to anticipate the future, features inconsistent with an efficient Great Designer (although not with a Designer of a more remote and indirect temperament]." (Pg. 29)

He notes, "Astrology can be tested by the lives of twins. There are many cases in which one twin is killed in childhood, in a riding accident, say, or is struck by lightning, while the other lives to a prosperous old age. Each was born in precisely the same place with within minutes of each other. Exactly the same planets were rising at their births. If astrology were valid, how could two such twins have such profoundly different fates? It also turns out that astrologers cannot even agree among themselves on what a given horoscope means. In careful tests, they are unable to predict the character and future of people they know nothing about except their time on earth." (Pg. 49-50)

He explains, "If the general picture of an expanding universe and a Big Bang is correct, we must then confront still more difficult questions. What were conditions like at the time of the Big Bang? What happened before that? Was there a tiny universe, devoid of all matter, and then the matter suddenly created from nothing? How does THAT happen? In many cultures it is customary to answer that God created the universe out of nothing. But this is mere temporizing. If we wish courageously to pursue the question, we must of course ask next where God comes from. And it we decide this to be unanswerable, why not save a step and decide that the origin of the universe is an unanswerable question? Or, if we say that God has always existed, why not save a step and conclude that the universe has always existed?" (Pg. 257)

He adds, "Very likely, the universe has been expanding since the Big Bang, but it is by no means clear that it will continue to expand forever. The expansion may gradually slow, stop and reverse itself. If there is less than a certain critical amount of matter in the universe, the gravitation of the receding galaxies will be insufficient to stop the expansion, and the universe will run away forever. But if there is more matter than we can see---hidden away in black holes, say, or in hot but invisible gas between the galaxies---then the universe will hold together gravitationally and partake of a very Indian succession of cycles, followed by contraction... without end. If we live in such an oscillating universe, then the Big Bang is ... merely the end of the previous cycle..." (Pg. 259)

He points out, "A standard motif in science fiction and UFO literature assumes extraterrestrials roughly as capable as we. Perhaps they have a different sort of spaceship or ray gun, but in battle---and science fiction loves to portray battles between civilizations---they and we are rather evenly matched. In fact, there is almost no chance that two galactic civilizations will interact at the same level. In any confrontation, one will always utterly dominate the other. A million years is a great many. If an advanced civilization were to arrive in our solar system, there would be nothing whatever we could do about it. Their science and technology would be far beyond ours." (Pg. 311)

He says, "The last scientist who worked in the Library [of Alexandria] was a mathematician, astronomer, physicist and the head of the Neoplatonic school of philosophy... Her name was Hypatia... Cyril, the Archbishop of Alexandria, despised her because of her close friendship with the Roman governor, and because she was a symbol of learning and science... in the year 415... she was set upon by a fanatical mob of Cyril's parishioners. They dragged her from her chariot, tore off her clothes, and ... flayed her flesh from her bones. Her remains were burned, her works obliterated, her name forgotten. Cyril was made a saint." (Pg. 335-336)

This book remains a monument to how science can be presented in a "popular" way to a mass audience, without oversimplifying the material. Anyone with even the remotest interest in science should read (and appreciate!) this book.

This book is well written and interesting I gave it only two stars because I found that it's becoming
Somewhat dated. There have been such leaps made in physics since 1980 that you will probably get more out of a newer book.

This book is a classic for a reason. Sagan has an infectious love for the sciences and nature, and his holistic view is thought provoking. Since it was written in the 70s, it is a bit out of date, however I think the ideals he presents about politics and the direction humanity will take still ring true. I read this book after watching the more recent Cosmos series, and they can sometimes be a bit redundant. If you are a big reader, get this book. If you aren't, or want everything to be up to date, watch the excellent series. Either way, the message that Cosmos presents is one that I think everyone should hear, and is guaranteed to inspire you.

This is as simple as science can get, folks. Famed astronomer Carl Sagan takes exceedingly complex subjects and makes them only slightly complex.

Cosmos is mostly a primer on astronomy, but biology, neuroscience, chemistry, and physics are also touched upon. Sagan also reviews the history of scientific progress and muses about future discoveries and the search for extraterrestrial life.

Written in 1980, Cosmos was meant to accompany Carl Sagan's television program of the same name (recently re-made with Neil DeGrasse Tyson as host). With every year that passes, the scientific relevancy of Cosmos is fading. The political climate into which this book was born has changed drastically. Even so, this book is broad and readable enough that, for now, it remains the premier introduction to scientific literacy.

2010 marked the thirtieth anniversary of the original publication of Carl Sagan's bestselling book Cosmos. The book itself is a companion piece to his thirteen part documentary series, which won both an Emmy and a Peabody Award at the time of its original broadcast and has subsequently become the most watched PBS program in the world. It also, of course spawned this book would go on to become a major bestseller with over five million copies being printed to this very day. Why is that?

In part it is because Cosmos the book, like its TV incarnation, is an epic journey with few boundaries and many lessons. Sagan, working from the original narration scripts (originally written by Sagan, Ann Druyan and Steven Soter) Cosmos covers a wide range of topics. These range from the origins of life, its evolution from single cell to modern humans, the ongoing battles between science and superstition, our own evolving outlook on the universe, our fascination with the planet Mars (the subject of chapter five "Blues for a Red Planet"), the complexity of the human brain (chapter 11 "The Persistence of Memory"), the possible existence of extraterritorial life and our species own survival in the future to name a few of the topics covered. As a result, Cosmos touches on a huge variety of topics that covers much of the human condition and the universe around us at the same time. While some of the science is inevitably out of date after three decades, most of the science holds up and the dating is therefore few are far between. That is forgetting that Cosmos actually predicted a number of things as well (such as the early version of the rovers now exploring Mars mentioned in the fifth chapter). Despite some of the science being out of date, Cosmos is still remarkable for the sheer number of topics in covers on its journey.

The continued success of the book also lies in what is perhaps its greatest strength: its writer Carl Sagan. Sagan's sense of wonder and excitement is evident throughout and it is those attributes that makes the potentially dull or overly complex parts of this book (dull as in topic you might not personally be interested in) worth reading. That is in large part because of Sagan's ability to bring abstract concepts (such as the mathematical parts of chapter 10 "The Edge of Forever" or the Drake equation in chapter 12 "Encyclopaedia Galactica") down to a level that almost anyone should be able to understand and find exciting. A great example of that lies in the statement by Sagan at the beginning of chapter nine: "If you wish to make an apple pie from scratch, you must first invent the universe." which allows Sagan to take us on a journey from the impossibly small (atoms) to the impossibly large (stars, black holes etc). The book at times also illustrates Sagan's fears about our species seemingly ingenious ability to both suppress science and, perhaps even more alarming, find new and more deadly ways of destroying ourselves These fears are best expressed in the final chapter of the book "Who Speaks for Earth?" which looks not only at the specter of nuclear weapons from the viewpoint of the then present day but also compares that threat to the burning of the Library of Alexandria and all the knowledge lost as a result. Sagan though makes sure that this journey is one that shows us that if we can survive our species destructive tendencies, our greatest accomplishments are still ahead of us.

As a result, Cosmos is both an epic journey and a personal one as well thanks to Sagan. It is an epic journey not just across time and space but from the incredibly small to the incredibly large and from our species darkest moments to our greatest accomplishments. It is a personal journey thanks to Sagan, his sense of wonder and excitement about us and our universe. While it may be out of date in places, Cosmos has a sense of timelessness to it that means it will live on for many more decades to come.

I bought the hard cover book Cosmos as a backup book for my observatory. I let our Astronomy club and family read from many Astronomy books. Cosmos is a big book that reads very well. Carl Sagan was a very good writer that could get lots of information to the general public in an average reading style that was not dry and too technical.

In the book we see many aspects of Astronomy...the planets, stars, nebulae, galaxies etc. Also many interesting aspects of the Earth are shown including ancient sites and some astronomical sites. He talks about the existence of life and possible extraterrestrial life. Carl tried to cover all bases.

Dr. Carl Sagan in his life received many many major awards , published numerous books and scientific articles and proposed very important and challenging ideas about the planets and space. If you ever see Cosmos on educational TV you are in for a real treat. He was one of the 20th century giants and for many years the president of the Planetary Society I belong to.

I'm an amateur astronomer of over forty years. I too believe in extraterrestrial life. Carl was much more optimistic than me and believed life could exist in some very harsh and to me unbelievable environments throughout space. Even though I never met Carl Sagan and he never knew of me I considered him my friend.

Here is a book chocked full of fascinating and interesting articles and ideas. Those wishing to have an Astronomy library should have a copy of Cosmos ( also a tribute to the genus of Carl Sagan...his genus does not come around very often). I bought my older copy in good condition for $1 plus shipping. Much of the science is still good and has not changed although we have now discovered many exoplanets and methods of gathering data about the planets and space have improved.

Cosmos 5 stars.

Beautifully written companion book to Carl Sagan's groundbreaking PBS series from the 1980s. Sagan orients the reader in time and place in the cosmos, describing everything from the Big Bang and relativity, to quantum theory, DNA, and evolution. All ideas are presented in the historical and religious context in which they came about along with the philosophical implications of the ideas. The book is at once an inspiring history of the triumph of the collective human intellect to understand it's place in the Universe, and a humbling explanation of how small human beings, or even the Earth is when compared with the immensity of space. Reading Sagan's prose as he shares his wonder and awe of the Universe is a religious experience for the scientifically minded.

I read "Cosmos" for the first time in my early 20's on a vacation and I would like to have read it sooner. I think that every family should have this on their bookshelf. It would be an interesting experiment to try reading this as a bed time story to an intelligent child. Certainly the book can be appreciated by any reasonably intelligent high school student. The chapters are independent enough that one can just read a chapter, enjoy it, and learn something from it.

It is hard to popularize science. It is easy to speak too loosely and to write something that is interesting, enjoyable to read, but which doesn't truly educate the reader. It is also easy to write too densely and to use terminology and ideas with which people outside a field are not familiar. Sagan does a great job explaining and promoting science in "Cosmos", and this book should be a model for science writers.

The main impression I got from "Cosmos" is that the universe is fascinating, and that the investigation of the universe by humans is a long term project . This is a good fact for Sagan to stress, because many people may feel deflated like I felt when I realized how long it will take to travel to other stars and their planets. But if we view the investigation of the universe as a project humanity has taken on, we can appreciate the small steps like getting pictures back of Mars without getting depressed that we are not going to be able to visit other stars in our lifetime.

Some of the experiments that Sagan describes, like Eratosthenes's measurement of the length of a shadow to deduce the circumference of the Earth (described in Chapter I), should be thought over for a few minutes before reading further. It would be even better to take a piece of paper, glue two straws at different locations on it, and see how flexing the paper in front of a bright light changes the relative lengths of the shadows, and thereby to get a visceral feeling for why Eratosthenes's experiment proves that the Earth is not flat. I had to reread the description of Einstein's Gedankenexperiment on p. 169.

In Chapter XIII, Sagan concedes that major ventures into space are enormously expensive, and that indeed we have more pressing immediate problems on Earth. He goes on to say, "But I have no doubt that, if we avoid self-destruction, we will sooner or later perform such missions. It is almost impossible to maintain a static society. There is a kind of psychological compound interest: even a small tendency toward retrenchment, a turning away from the Cosmos, adds up over many generations to a significant decline. And conversely, even a slight commitment to ventures beyond the Earth- to what we might call, after Columbus, 'the enterprise of the stars'- builds over many generations to a significant human presence on other worlds, a rejoicing in our participation in the Cosmos." (p. 285)

I think this book should be mandatory reading, maybe for 9th graders, before they take any serious science classes. I remember hating science in school. I didn't "get" it and it was taught so dry and matter-of-fact that I was bored to tears. (And I must admit that I got in trouble more than once for sleeping in class.) I learned enough to squeak by and earn my diploma. Never did get my college degree, although I did waste a lot of my parents money trying. ;) The only science class I ever enjoyed in school was astronomy, but they still managed to make it as boring as possible. I came across Cosmos at some point in my early twenties. I had always been interested and awed by the universe, but was never given the spark of curiosity before. I must have finished this book in two days, and then went to the library and read every other book by Carl Sagan I could get my hands on. And I have learned more about science from Carl Sagan than I did in 15 or 16 years of formal education. The beauty of this book, and his others, is that he makes it interesting, almost as if the universe was a character in a book and he was just describing it's traits. I know that if I had read this book as a teen, I would have been a lot more open to learning about the natural world than I was. Say what you want about Carl Sagan, he is still my hero.

A beautiful book from a brilliant scientist and a loving human being!

I read this book long time ago after watching the TV series also titled `Cosmos'. Ever since I'm spell bound and mesmerized by the mechanics of this beautiful universe of ours. Cosmos sparked such an interest in me for Astronomy and Physics that I ended up reading many books by Carl Sagan including The Daemon Haunted World, Broca's Brain, Billions and Billions, The Dragons of Eden et al.

Carl Sagan was probably the most beloved and respected American scientist of the 20th century. His width and depth of knowledge, his insights into the workings of our universe, his inquisitive and almost childlike curiosity and his calm, composed and avuncular demeanor was well liked by many. His writing style is lucid and keeps reader engaged. His books are packed with scientific information without boring down the reader with arcane mathematics. Carl Sagan was a savant and a polymath and a true admirer and well-wisher of humanity. Cosmos, no doubt, is his magnum opus and a book worth delving into.

It's been years since I last watched repeats of Carl Sagan's "Cosmos" series on PBS, but I still have fond memories of it from my adolescence. I recently read the book based on the series, which covers the same basic material but without (as Sagan points out in the introduction) being a transcript. Still, the book captures the distinctive voice and language that Sagan used while narrating the TV series. Although some of the science is now dated- for instance, the Big Bang is now believed to have happened about 13.7 billion years ago, rather than the "fifteen to twenty billion years ago" that Sagan cites- the book essentially focuses on the history of science and stays general enough to stay relevant and interesting. Sagan is also careful enough as a scientist and writer to add qualifications to his statements and point out scientific uncertainties. On the whole, the book is still a readable classic of popular science, especially if you're nostalgic for the TV show (without wanting to pay for the boxed set of DVDs). One can, of course, argue with some of Sagan's optimistic view of science: he see science as essentially a force for good that has only been corrupted by superstition and mysticism, rather than seeing it as a morally neutral technique that can inherently be used for either good or evil. But his outlook motivates his enthusiasm for the subjects he covers and adds to the spirit of the book (and yes, Sagan is fascinated by vast quantities and refers frequently to things like "billions upon billions" of stars and galaxies).

'Cosmos' has been one of the key popular science books since it appeared on the shelves, and it is mostly as relevant now as when it was first written. Sagan is obviously fascinated and passionate about astronomy and cosmology and that passion is evident on every page. This book looks a great deal at the question of extraterrestrial life and evidence for or against, as well as wider questions of astronomy and the universe. This looks at such a variety of topics to illustrate the points Sagan makes, from egyptian hieroglyphics to brain function, nuclear war to ancient Greek science and more besides, that there is something to engage and interest everyone. Each chapter is beautifully summed up with a final thought by Sagan that manages to be stirring and poetic nearly every time. In addition, each chapter is also begun with quotes from various texts and scholars from over the years which gives a good feel for the chapter to come. This book could have been improved with diagrams to illustrate, and clarify, some of the points made by Sagan, but this is a minor gripe. If you liked this book I HIGHLY recommend 'Big Bang' by Simon Singh which has much of this information, and more besides, written in a clear and coherent way and with more up-to-date research and discoveries. In some respect, although I liked this book, I'd recommend 'Big Bang' more due to this more modern rendering of the same story and information. Overall though, for a classic scientific text and for a fascinating and thought provoking read, you can't go far wrong in looking here.

Dedicated to Stephen A. Haines whose reviews inspired me to read some amazing science books and who will be greatly missed.

Feel free to check out my blog which can be found on my profile page.

I found "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan to be sweeping and thought provoking. . It represented the wide ranging views of a great scientist compressed into layman' s language. This book ranges from the moment of "The Big Bang" through human development to extensive consideration of the possibility of other intelligent life in the depths of space.
Perhaps some Christians (or Jews or Moslems) will find offense from the author's resolute belief in a chance evolutionary progression, but though I am a conservative Christian, I only found it to be thought provoking.

(Okay, I'm afraid this is more an essay than a review but I hope it's evident how this book and the views expressed are related.)

I remember the t.v. series from my childhood. It fascinated me then and I'd love to return to it someday. But I decided to go to the book first.

I got an original addition. No updates. I was worried that I'd slap my head a few times and think; Wow, THAT was off!

Nope. While the DATA may be out of date, the lessons taught in it were and still are spot on. Even the chapters focusing on the threat of nuclear war (say it with me: NOO-KLEE-ER) are still relevant because the driving force behind the arms race (to sum up; xenophobia) is unfortunately still so prevalent today.

People would rather shun/belittle/bully/kill those they don't understand or disagree with than live with them on this earth ... our Earth.

Sagan (as with MANY popular scientists) has drawn fire from religious groups due to his staunch atheism. Well, I'm not an atheist I find no threat it what he writes. Religion and spirituality in general came about to ease the minds of the general public concerning issues for which there was no understanding at the time. Science hadn't advanced enough to tell what was causing plagues or why the sun seemed to be eaten and gradually reappear every once in a while.

Now science can explain those things. Yes, there are questions it does not answer yet. Yes, there are probably questions it may NEVER answer. But questions of self-worth shouldn't come from science. Men and women around the world can decide for themselves what their "destiny" is and that personal voyage of self-discovery is the most spiritual activity one can participate in.

Science and spirituality (even religion) can coexist. Even the Dalai Lama conceded that if science should contradict the existence of reincarnation; "Tibetan Buddhism would have to change. But," he added, "you're going to find it pretty hard to disprove reincarnation..."

Thank you, sir, we'll see what we can do. :-)

This book is not only on my top list of must reads but also is a fantastic present.

Beautifully written... it made me think about the times in life when I would lay down looking at the sky and wondering why? We are such an insignificant and important part of whatever it is

Sagan takes us to reflect upon those whys in time and space. Fast forward from the Big Bang Theory to the black holes, the development of the genetic code, a deep understanding of science for the pure pleasure of it. The novas, the super novas, the secrets of the planets, one by one... why Venus is hell and we are in Heaven... we can wonder with the scientists on intergalaxy curiosity, why, how, when.

Some parts of the book are quite technical, but explained with uttermost simplicity.

Along the way, he introduces reflections from scientists, and thinkers. This would be a great book to give to a teenager and specially someone who likes to know about discoveries and science. but it is also a great book for those who enjoy social sciences. Managers, teachers and leaders can take so many quotes from it.

"We are made of cosmic stuff" all of our atoms where at some time and at some space part of the greater cosmos, how cool is that?

a must read, must share, much loved book.

I first bumped into Carl Sagan when I saw his TV documentary series called "Cosmos" many years ago. It has only been recently that I have got off my rear and read the book. It has to be said that I had waited far too long to do this.

"Cosmos" (the book) is a great overall introduction to the universe about us and the history of its discovery by people. Mixing hitsory and astronomy, Sagan covers the major efforts that went into discovering different things out there and what thos discoveries meant. There is also a healthy level of how astronomers do what they do, such as light spectrum analysis, radar mapping and so on. Despite this, there is virtually no mathematics involved, which is a good thing for general readers.

The hardcover edition also has plenty of pictures, photos and diagrams relating to the text. This makes the book very interesting and quite amazing to read. I was very impressed with the quality of the photos and what they showed. They added a great deal to the text, especially for more visual people such as myself.

The only drawback with the book is its age. It was written over 20 years ago and references to future missions planned for 1986 highlight this aspect of the book. There may have been discoveries since the time of writing that would add more to the reader's knowledge. However, in spite of this drawback of age, the book is still valuable as a very readable introduction.

Carl Sagan writes with a very fluid and relaxing style. He doesn't overload the reader with specialised jargon, and when he does use it, he explains it very well. When the explanations are a bit heavy, I have noticed Sagan's tendency to supply diagrams. I was at no point confused or lost by Sagan's text.

Overall, the book makes a great starting point into the world of astronomy, the path people have taken to get us to where we are today and just what is out there. This is a very interesting book about a very interesting subject. I definitely recommend it, despite the age problems refered to above.

How many people who watched the 'Cosmos' series on television (PBS in America - perhaps the best astronomy and general science series ever produced by them) could ever forget Carl Sagan's intonation at proclaiming the wonders of the universe in grand terms, billions and billions of stars and galaxies and planets (and consequently, everything else).
While this book was published in 1980 to be a companion to the television series, there is nonetheless a certain timelessness about it. Many science texts (even general readers such as this) become dated fairly quickly. Yet this book remains a volume to which I refer time and again for its history, philosophy and insight into scientific method and personality.
This book more than anything provided the inspiration for me to study astronomy. While I did not take a degree in it (when I arrived at university I was informed that I had already studied more than their undergraduate curriculum provided; that I should take some physics and mathematics courses and then take a Master's degree later if interested--which may happen after the my current degree progress is completed), my interest in astronomy has remained strong and permeates many of my other interests, including my current work in theology and philosophy.
The visual presentation of this book is stunning. Pictures, particularly those from telescopes, space probes, and dramatic artistic renderings of phenomena not yet captured on film give a real feel for the subject.
Sagan begins the book with a grand tour of the universe, starting at the outermost edges with quasars and unknowns, and travelling back through galaxies and stars, passing interesting objects such as nebulae, black holes, stellar nurseries, planetary systems, finally to arrive back on earth, the unique planet (from our perspective) because it has life.
From here, Sagan goes back in history to the great library of Alexandria, which remains an object of fascination (current archaeological excavations continue in Alexandria, and there are various plans for memorialising the library). He introduces early efforts at scientific method and investigation by discussing Eratosthenes, a librarian who investigated reports in the various texts for himself, rather than taking things at face value.
Chapters include explorations of planetary astronomy, with special attention to Mars; stellar astronomy and the life cycle of stars; issues of space and time; issues of observation and epistemology (how do we know what we know, and why do we think we know it?); the origin and fate of the universe; the idea of life on other planets (Sagan confesses to a prejudice--the idea that life must be based on carbon, and not other elements); and the idea of SETI (search for extraterrestrial intelligence) which due to Sagan's work and influence continues today in various ways around the globe. Finally, Sagan discusses the politics of science (and politics in general) giving a cautious hope for the fate of the earth--this was the height of the Cold War, after all.
'We are the local embodiment of a Cosmos grown to self-awareness. We have begun to contemplate our origins: starstuff pondering the stars; organised assemblages of ten billion billion billion atoms considering the evolution of atoms; tracing the long journey which, here at least, consciousness arose. Our loyalties are to the species and the planet. We speak for Earth. Our obligation to survive is owed not just to ourselves but also to that Cosmos, ancient and vast, from which we spring.'
Intelligent, written with grace and humour, the narrative is largely non-technical but not condescending and lends itself well to understanding.

Carl Sagan did more than any scientist in his generation to communicate to a mass audiencethe great strides and the deeper meaning of physics, astronomy, evolution, and our place in the universe. Many are aware of the television series made both during his lifetime and remade this past season, and this book is closely related. But it is much more thorough, much broader in the material that it covers, and ultimately, a much more important work. Even if you've seen either or both series, you will be rewarded by reading the book.

Sagan does provide some superfluous advice on global social policy as he chastises the US and the USSR for amassing vast nuclear arsenals. But when focusing on science, he is the best. An amazing mind and man.

Science/atronomy always seemed too complex as i'm a lay person who is terrible at maths etc.so i been shy of these kinds of books.This book is a hive of understandable provocative information.It explains how vast vast can be.And that 2 things are evident-universe has infinite time and its constantly re-organising itself.It made me see that change is a small hop to mutation given enough time and the book explains the process from sub-atomic to life.Anyway now i've come up with my bold and eccentric belief that God is no more than a life-of-its-own-super-concious-collective spin-off that's been snowballingfrom from everything that has ever lived on the planet for the last 3-4 billion years (yes other living planets have their own Gods)and didn't create the Universe.If the universe/s are truly infinite then they truly are backwards in time too.So no need for a Creator.However i disagree how Sagan merely implys God is a figment of our imagination as all good scientists do.The collective human super-conciousness should be thing we meditate and aspire to connect with or science means nothing because we are flawed. Perhaps because God is not in charge of EVERYTHING !and Religion tends to make a mess of this evolving process because of its ego-centricity.This is a facinating book. These are some of the ideas i thought of from it but 'Cosmos' is full of hundreds of others.There is a useful out-line of the development of science through the ages and a tantalising glimpse of what the ancient Greeks were able phathom way ahead of their time.Just WHAT was in the library of Alexandria before it was destroyed?

PS:But i question- are scientists the best for communicating with alien life forms?Guys Guys, on our space probe, keep representing our numbers simple!The difference between 2 rocks/stars etc from 5 is as ** or ***** etc and from there decimals can be explained.Instead they use shapes that give no clue to quantity.Poor Sagan a tad too idealistic i feel about super intelligent aliens-their intelligence likely to be entirely different from ours. Meanwhile our first radio communications zinging away at the speed of light through space transmit largely spam.We are too back-ward to get rid of it either....

Carl Sagan's book entitled `Cosmos' is advertised as a companion to the popular thirteen-part television series produced in 1978, but to me, it was far more than that. It stands out as a book that delivers not only its expected doses of interesting and widespread scientific information but also as a work that has an immense philosophical, cultural and spiritual importance. Few writers can boast the sheer breath of knowledge and understanding of science that Carl Sagan can, but what to me is comparably impressive are his unparalleled skills as a communicator and populariser of science. And his talents are on full display in `Cosmos' written with punch and power Sagan writes about the development of astronomy from its humble beginnings a midst ancient pious civilisations to the beautiful integrated secular science it has become today.

He also presents mountains of information in between, from the methods Eratosthenes used to reconcile the shape and diameter of our terra-aqueous Earth to the epistemological break throughs brought upon by the scientific method pioneered by the ancient Ionian scientists. The book rages like a whirlwind of knowledge and information covering everything from the age of the observable universe and the stellar evolution of main sequence stars, to the implications of superb super novae and other colossal explosions to the observations of spell binding pulsars and thought experiments inside mysterious black holes. But this is not just a book about astronomy and accompanying dense facts without context, Sagan also manages to package important break throughs in Mathematics, Physics, Biology, History, Geology and many more important disciplines of Science. He presents informative anecdotes about Darwinian evolution and the Cambrian explosion as well as the possibility of extra-terrestrial intelligent life and interstellar travel and muses on the importance of art and philosophy, Sagan's interests seem endless.

But one of this book's greatest achievements apart from the spirited discussion of so many important scientific breakthroughs throughout history with an infused genuine passion is the accompanying dialogue about the philosophical implications and ethical responsibility of discovery. Perhaps one of the most valuable lessons one can take away from the book, is a new and enhanced interpretation of our place in the universe. A humbleness and wonder instilled in us by experiencing the beauty of science and our ability to comprehend the many mysteries around us. A catalysed realisation that we are an intricate rearrangement of `star dust', a special consequence of Physics and Biochemistry swirling around at incredible speeds in the outskirts of our beloved Milky way. The cathartic moment when Sagan makes us recognize that we are merely a small and inconsequential component of the vast and immense cosmic arena is enlightening. This book makes one understand that what can truly give us purpose and satisfaction is knowledge and fascination directed at our perplexing, ever changing and profoundly elegant universe.

Dr. Carl Sagan's book, "Cosmos," is accompanied by the television of the same name in the early 1980s. We're not that much closer to seeing intelligent life on other planets in the galaxy. Since his death, we have learned a lot more but this book is still invaluable in understanding the mysteries of the universe.

Dr. Sagan's writings allow us to ask and answer questions that sometimes has no answers about life here on earth, the galaxy, and the universe. While I have some interest in astronomy, I don't know much about the subject. This book is a great beginning but even for those out there who are more advanced then I am about the subject.

The book is a scientific classic and it should be read at least once in a lifetime. No, I didn't get everything written in the book. I doubt that I could or anybody else. There is too much going on and information to digest for one person without much experience and background.

I would love there to be intelligent life in other worlds far closer to our own on earth but it's highly unlikely unless we advance our space studies. Until then, we have brilliant scientists like Carl Sagan and others to help us through the possiblities and realities.

If you want Latin American audio, you should buy this one, this edition is pretty nice, it has less discs than the previous one I owned.

BUT... For Latin American viewers -such as me-, the Spanish audio can trigger very deep emotional response, for many of us, the series was a life-changing experience, and the voice in the dubbing became an authority. Because of this, for Latin American viewers outside Mexico, like me, may find the voice and the music in the second chapter quite dissonant, less authoritative and poetic, since the chapter was indeed available in TV and VHS tapes with the 'right' dubbing.

The additional features are not very attractive, and the menus are not as rich as in other DVD edition, but that's not really a problem: the main content is still satisfactory, stimulating and enlightening.

I bought this set not only for my collection, but in hope that my sons enjoy this, in addition to the upcoming Neil DeGrasse Tyson remake.

This eBook OMITS the index by Delight Ansley which was awarded the 1981 ASI/EBSCO Publishing Award
(formerly ASI/H.W. Wilson Award), the highest American award for indexing excellence.
As a book, Cosmos rates 5 stars and the eBook is serviceable. But to omit an existing index is inexcusable. And to omit an award-winning index is a disservice. That merits enough notice to get a 1-star rating.

By the way, the store, since eBooks now outsell print books, why not reliably separate user reviews by ISBN with links to other related ISBNs? There's often no way to know to what edition a user review relates. Hardcover, paperback, eBook shouldn't all be jumbled together, and neither should different editions within those categories.

I first saw this material not in book form, but in the TV series made for PBS. I remember a childhood of growing up watching Carl Sagan on the bridge of an imaginary ship, hurtling through the universe as he explained the wondrousness of it all.

The writing is easy to follow and, while it may jump around time-wise, encourages the reader to learn more about astronomy as well as astrophysics, chemistry, and mathematics. A particularly important quality in Sagan's writing is his ability to break down concepts which, ordinarily, might be beyond the grasp of those not initiated to physics, geometry, and history. He introduces complicated topics (such as astrophysics) in simple enough terms that they can be followed and applied to the discussions in later chapters. In addition, his unique insight into the space escapades of the past several decades (often through his consultation or even direct involvement) lends a personal touch to the narrative that makes it all seem more human and understandable.

His strength of conviction and courage to show the darker side of humanity as it relates to the study of the universe is admirable; his willingness to expose the ugliness of societies ignorant in the value of science (to this day) gives readers a broader view of astronomy's place in the world. A writer unafraid to show the truth is a diamond in the rough. Sagan was one such jewel, and this novel is certainly a treasure all its own.

This book should be required reading for every citizen of planet Earth. Although written a quarter of a century ago, it has lost little of its applicability. If anything, the occasional references to the Cold War simply remind us of the fragility of our modest planet. Although a fair portion of the material will be familiar to those who often read science books for laypeople, it is presented in a way that fascinates and entices. Books like these help us to understand who we are, whence we came, and whither we go.
The photos and paintings in this edition are beautiful and complement the text perfectly. The structure of the book follows the content elegantly, and the prose is lucid. It is a pity that Carl Sagan is no longer at hand to speak to the newest generation of humans; I wonder what his clear voice would have to say about the newest findings in astronomy, and about the newest happenings in our world.
This book is a reminder of our heritage, sometimes brighter than we now can know, sometimes dark enough to chill our souls with the thoughts of the evils committed by our ancestors. It is a warning too, for it reminds us that we have the frightening technology to destroy ourselves. But it is also a beacon of hope, for it reminds us that we have the choice of whether to allow our civilization to fade into obscurity, or to settle our earthly differences and commit ourselves to our best destiny, a future among the stars.

I loved his easy to understand descriptions and the way he paints a picture, but I was a little put off by how much he used religion as the scapegoat for the decline of science, and in the process ended up defending a religion of science. I believe the two can exist in harmony and nothing he described from an astronomical or evolutionary standpoint is in opposition to my faith.

I barely remember the program leaflet...
"Introducing Doctor Carl Sagan - Professor of Astronomy and Space Sciences, and Director of the Laboratory for Planetary Studies at Cornell University."
It seems like just yesterday. I was a teenager in New England, and some guy was invited to give a lecture about astronomy at the high school auditorium. I'd never heard of Carl Sagan before, but when his credentials were publicized, I had the notion that his talk would most likely be very interesting. That is, if he was a capable speaker. You never know - I'd been put to sleep by the best of them.
Needless to say, I didn't sleep a wink! I was literally riveted to a fluid voice that sounded (and felt) like the eternal trickle of clear water from a bottomless well. His lecture was a celebration of passion and prose. His accounts and speculations of the Planetary Sciences and Exobiology seemed to drain into my head through an ectoplasmic funnel. There were brief moments when my awareness would be perched on just his phrases and expressions, as though he were coining new terminology - "Billions and billions". And afterward he mingled, and I shook his hand.
His enthusiasm for science was infectious, like a virus. If you weren't careful, he was going to get you interested. His demeanor and presence were a magnetic force to be reckoned with, and you were darned glad it was. Then the TV series Cosmos hit the screen we all nodded, and said that we just knew he was going to be famous someday. Before he died in 1997, over half a billion people saw Cosmos on TV, and it was the best-selling science book ever published in the English language.
Some of the science in Cosmos is now out of date. But that doesn't change the fact that this book and its author will remain forever the symbols of awareness in the realm of science and astronomy. Plus, its philosophies and ideals are as current as today, and for all time.
Cosmos was really the beginning of enlightened public interest in the Universe. The juicy morsel that got us to salivate over what has become the ultimate banquet. When the science of Sagan was new, and its theories current, we all dreamt in hoards of being closer to it all; of knowing what he knows; of learning beyond the boundaries that he so ardently confronted. And now that he's gone, there is this legacy - the original manuscript of collective understanding; the quintessential tablet of science for the past, present, and future.
Cosmos was the first book to be placed on the Belmont Society's "Required Reading List for the amateur astronomer". It is mostly available in paperback, but a few hardcover editions are still around. Whichever you find, read it with a slight note of reverence. It would be well deserved.

Cosmos is more than just a book about space. The word Cosmos itself, derived from ancient Greek, implies the deep interconnectedness of all things, in which we all play a part. Although it was written over two decades ago, and therefore you may think that it may not be so relevant in its facts today, its underlying dual-purposes, to educate and to inspire, remain just as relevant as ever. It serves as an introduction to science, and the late Carl Sagan, one of the great humanists of our time, does an excellent job in bringing us into that world by not presenting simply hard facts and technobabble. Instead, he tries to make the book accessible to the scientific novice, and shows how it is relevant to every aspect of our daily lives. And we learn about the development of human understanding, not only in terms of 'Where did we come from?' and 'How did the universe get created?', but the development of ourselves, as people who began our existence from the most humble of beginnings, and were intelligent enough to ask ourselves 'Who are we?' and of course 'Why are we here?'. He shows why science is not only relevant to us here and now, but how it can help us to understand the future, and in the final chapter, he makes it clear that through the rampant destruction of our environment, that future may not be so long-reaching as we might dream it. Sagan manages to gently educate us in a stylish and entertaining way, and his book Cosmos leaves us feeling richer for the experience. I certainly recommend this to anyone. After all, it does concern everyone!

I have never been much of a scientist, but Carl Sagan makes me wish I was. In Cosmos, Sagan takes the readers through the history, present (as of 1980), and future of astronomy. In under 300 pages, he summarized all that I learned in a semester long astronomy class and much more, all in clear, concise, and interesting prose. He asks and answers many questions I have had about the universe beyond Earth, and proposes many theories and scenarios that he wishes he knew more about. He writes in a way that every reader can understand, even when the subject is a terribly complex problem that only the greatest astronomers have dared to tackle. This trait as well as his own curiosity, make the reader feel comfortable and assured even if they will never be more than hopelessly amatuer astronomers. Aside from the broad exploration of the Cosmos, Sagan makes interesting cases for the advancement of knoledge and peace on Earth and takes fascinating tangents that are very thought provoking. This is the best science book I have ever read and while I will never be much of a scientist, it makes me jealous of those who are.

This humbling book was read by someone who needed humbling. When Sagan was alive doing his PBS shows this reviewer did not watch them. He had determined that Nova would be a dumbed down science program not unlike the contents of a Pschyology Today article. An apology is required but to who? Perhaps to the reviewer who had too much hubris to pay attention and short shifted himself. He is a wiser reviewer now.

Cosmos is a book written for the mass market and can be found in your local grocery store. The value here is that any one can pick it up very inexpensively and explore a plethora of scientific ideas in a deep yet readable way. Many of us do not have the training and skills that allow us to understand the details of a scientific study. Sagan provides us a history that is there for the everyman who yearns for information.

Sagan presents his case with some biography such as Kepler and Newton. Some evolution, autobiography and some cosmology. For us scientific little leaguers he presents all of his ideas from a scientific method. Nothing in science happens (or happened) without intelligent hypotheses, testing and review by people who understand the tests and can offer something to them.

The book is written in an engaging style that is florid enough to keep the reader interested even in the moments that may seem arcane. Should the reader stick with those moments they will be satisfied with a clear answer to their question.

A book like this has been in print since 1980. People must be reading it. Those that have are rewarded with ideas and reasons to pursue new adventures in science as a result.

Carl Sagan, with this remarkable book and its like-named television series, introduced millions of people to the wonders of science. The 13-part series, which has now been seen by over half a billion people, aside from introducing many people to science, was also enormously influential - can one imagine the success of the modern Discovery Channel and its ilk (actual 24-hour science networks) without Sagan? Hardly. Undoubtedly, many of the leading figures in science today would credit Sagan with introducing them to the field in the first place. Perhaps even more importantly, however, Sagan did that incredible, seemingly almost impossible thing: he interested the average layman in science. Whether he was a "real" (whatever that means) scientist or not, as some refuse to concede, is totally beside the point: what he accomplished was monumental, and he should be given the credit he deserves. Many supposedly open-minded individuals would keep science esoteric and its knowledge among the hands of an elite few; Sagan not only pointed out why this is wrong, but also devoted his life to vigorously seeing that it never became so. This book is remarkable in that it explain many difficult and far-reaching concepts in relatively simple terms that most people will be able to understand - and even enjoy. Unlike many college textbook authors, Sagan, for the most part, keeps his personal biases out of the writing, and he rarely gets overly technical. This is truly a book that all can enjoy. There are many photographs and quotes strewn throughout the book as well, to pep up interest in the text. This is a great general, all-around book on science for the layman: truly a "Science For Dummies." And, unfortunately, this book is often pigeonholed as a book solely on astronomy (the section in which you're likely to find it at bookstores), but don't let the title fool you: this book at least touches on all the major aspects of science, as well as quite a bit of history. Evolution is given a clear and concise overview, genetics is more than touched upon - and Sagan even induldges in a bit of the social sciences. However, the book, unfortunately, does grow less interesting towards the end, where Sagan uses the text to push his own agendas (radio astronomy, later the basis of his excellent science fiction novel, Contact; and a dated plea for peace in the nuclear arms race, which, though commendable and worthy, now smacks a little too highly of Cold War paranoia.) All in all, though, this is an excellent, highly interesting, and immensely readable book that works very well as introduction to the science (in particular, astronomy) for the common man, as well as guiding him towards that all-important virtue: open-mindedness. Along with Stephen Hawking's A Brief History of Time and some (unfortunately) long-out-of-print books from Arthur C. Clarke and Isaac Asimov, this is perhaps the best type book of its kind. Highly reccommended.

The book itself is a 5 star must-read for fans of astronomy and its place in humanity, as well as anyone who just happens to be a fan of Carl Sagan. The reason I am giving this particular product 1 star is the fact that after purchasing it, I was unable to open it on neither my Kindle Fire nor my Galaxy S7. After reaching out to customer service about this a couple times and never receiving an answer, I just left it alone and finally got a physical copy from Barnes & Noble. Don't get me wrong, I'm still using the store for online shopping with 0 complaints, but I certainly will not be using their digital bookstore ever again.

Carl Sagan's book and TV series called Cosmos has opened the vast universe to millions and millions of people. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book and watching the series.

It is not surprising that Cosmos is the best-selling science book ever published in the English language...and the series has been seen by half a billion people!

Carl Sagan was able to accomplish this feat by tapping into his psyche as a little boy who asked many questions about the universe. He then wrote and produced the series from the heart. His enthusiasm and fascination with the earth, planets, stars, galaxies, extraterrestrial life and more is contagious! He took an incredibly difficult subject and made it fun, exciting and educational for anyone from 8 to 80 who has looked up at the night skies...and wondered.

The book and series are not to be missed!

The Re-Discovery of Common Sense: A Guide to: The Lost Art of Critical Thinking

This is an incredible book, even if it is dated. I am a words person, not numbers, so when Sagan got into a lot of equations and chemistry, I had to kind of skim over those parts. I never could have understood them, and if I'd tried to force myself to, I probably would have gotten frustrated and gave up on the book. So I stuck with the parts (happily, that was most of it) I could absorb and easily understand. There were so many fascinating aspects to it that I would have missed had I given up over the math. This book is capable of starting you on a journey. It has made me find a book on Alexandria, which I am just starting. There is a fascinating history there, and I will continue on with books on da Vinci and Einstein. They are men I've heard about, of course, but never has my curiosity about them been so piqued. Being a book lover, the Library of Alexandria is something I want to learn more about. This book will make you want to learn more about a lot of things.

Imagine you are a wanderer, like our forebears, you gaze up at night, finding a spectacular image then tell you offspring what you've seen, you name these constellations, like telling a story. Millions years later, our species created enough fairytales, then science comes, evolves, battles, advances, imagine you are a reporter, and you need to write down all these. Not just the outcome.
That's how cosmos comes to be what it is now, but unfortunately, most of us just know the outcome, like Earth is a planet orbiting the Sun, a star. Carl Sagan did the rest of the jobs brilliantly in Cosmos. When reading this book, you will forget it's science but a story book as if you are surfing in the wave of history from the very beginning of everything.
unlike other science book, Cosmos not just tell us what when and how, but why, why it's so important for our species and survival. The book is full of knowledge, wisdom and a sense of responsibility as one inhabitant on Earth.
Everyone on Earth should read this book

Why don't schools teach from this book?? (Probably because a new edition with the latest pictures from Hubble isn't cranked out every 6 months requiring students to go buy a copy!)
In "Cosmos," Sagan takes you by the hand on a journey through the universe, and the history of our own attempts to try and undertand our place in it. More than any other science book, by the time you get to the chapters about our own fledgling explorations of the outer solar system, you realize how much we stand on the shoulders of giants from our own past. Eratosthenes, Kepler, Galileo, Newton, and Goddard - all great men, but also with very human qualities that drove them to explore what was "out there." It's easy to see (and share) Sagan's frustruation with the apathay and acceptance of pseudoscience in modern society. We've come so far, but there is still a long way to go...
BTW, try and find the hardbound edition of "Cosmos." Otherwise you are shorting yourself about 95% of the illustrations.

I would recommend Astronomer Ph.D. Carl Sagan's Cosmos. It is a kind introduction to many of the basic ideas of science written expressly for the layperson. Many professional research scientists and engineers routinely cite Cosmos as the catalyst that piqued their interest in math, science and engineering as children. If read with a dictionary in hand, English as a second language readers should have little trouble comprehending the content of this well written work of non-fiction. You can also watch the 1980 award winning television version of the book called Cosmos: A Personal Voyage hosted by Sagan and for which a sequel (Cosmos: A Space Time Odyssey) was made in 2014 and hosted by Astrophysicist Ph.D. Neil deGrasse Tyson.

Cosmos takes a sweeping look at, well, the Cosmos. Carl Sagan brings perspective to our view of the starry night sky, as well as the living creatures here and all around us. We visit the planets of the Solar system and learn, from a practical layman's viewpoint, what they are like. Remember, as one of the best populist authors of science, ever, he knows how to keep you interested, laughing, and turning pages. It is all terribly interesting, especially if you don't know that Venus is almost as hot as a kiln -- but at first scientists thought it was nothing but jungle! And the Milky Way galaxy, if we could watch it spin in super high speed, looks a little like a spinning popcorn popper. But you'll understand that more if you read the book. If you were to read just 3 books by Carl Sagan, I'd first of all say get these Four: The Demon-Haunted World, Cosmos, Dragons of Eden, and Billions & Billions. In that order. But you won't know without conducting your own experiments, right? Read 'em all!

I remember this book as a gift from my friend from America when I was growing up in early 90s and I also do remember spending hours and hours lost in 'all things cosmic' for days together. 'Cosmos' was THE book that gave a perspective to my small world in mid-city outside world.
This masterpiece of writing is a journey through our observable universe, touching all aspects of human life from history of life to future of science, all the way through simple physical laws, mathematical concepts and examples in evolutionary biology. Sagan moves from sizes and shapes of celestial objects to history of human knowledge, from ancient mythologies to eminent dangers of giant asteroids falling from the sky, from DNA structures to relativity and big bang theory, search for extra- terrestrial intelligence, how dolphins communicate....and more.
The last chapter, "Who speaks for Earth?' speaks about the humans and their relationship with Earth. Sagan makes you aware of the blatant reality and practical challenges of current human generation arising from our attitudes towards each other, in turn potentially harming everyone's existence on this fragile 'pale blue dot'. It is sort of a warning sign from the past should humans continue to uncover the mysteries of the cosmos.
Throughout the book, however, Sagan never ceases to underscore the human curiosity and ingenuity, and that makes this book an interesting read for adults and children alike. This is a very famous book/ TV series( I have not yet watched all old episodes.) and I am super- excited about new 'Cosmos' with Dr.Neil deGrasse Tyson!

A must read. Personally my favorite book. Carl Sagan was truly a one of a kind. You can tell his love for science from the first sentence to the the very last word. Personally my favorite chapter is the last "Who Speaks for Earth." His poetic words describing a future for the human race. His passion for peace and discovery. I loved this book and I thank Carl Sagan for getting me into astronomy. Highly recommend.

In memory of the greatest science advocate, Dr. Carl Sagan

Sagan accomplished a lot in writing Cosmos. This book established him for the rest of his life as the most famous advocate of science in the English-speaking world, made him a household name and a huge figure in popular culture. He introduced if not "billions and billions" then certainly millions to some of science's heaviest concepts, and found a way to do it in terms that bored no one and set off imaginations in a positive way.

In Cosmos, the earth is established as but one speck in a vast ocean of galactic one-ness and the mind is invited to open wide and ponder just how enormous everything that's out there is. Sagan explains supernovas and black holes, tackles concepts like time and the environment of planet earth. He lauds the ancient Greeks and champions the greatest minds of science. Through his personality and charisma and his contagious love for his work, Sagan accomplished a near-miracle and brought an audience to what in other hands might have been the driest topics imaginable.

Cosmos is one of the best works of scientific non-fiction ever composed, and I hope it remains well-read into coming generations. I am old enough to remember when Sagan was a celebrated superstar in the late 1980's, parodied on comedy shows and a soft drink commercial, and it puzzles me how less than ten years after death robbed us of Carl Sagan, he is already slipping away from popular memory and how so few people under the age of about 20 even know who he is. I was having a conversation about this just last night with a high school senior I tutor. She is a bright girl, representative of her peers and social class, and yet when I mentioned this book and its author, she gave me a blank, "I've never heard of that."

I gave her my copy, but, boy, talk about feeling old...

Anyway, I love this book, whole-heartedly recommend it, and I hope this review in some tiny way encourages its reading.

This is our rich heritage, which we are proud of and which will certainly save! I collect scientific papers of the great scientist Carl Sagan. Thanks to him, I began to better understand the Cosmos. Brilliant Sagan explained about the beauty of the Universe and I will thank him to end his life. This book should be in every man interested in the space. Believe me, with Sagan you will discover beautiful and unique worlds of the Universe. And this will be the beginning of a great and exciting journey! Thank you very much!

An absolutely must read for everyone, period.
I was introduced to Dr. Carl Sagan through, like many others, his television series "Cosmos". It was something new to me. Before that I used to view science and astronomy as something which neither I was qualified to know nor it was essential for me to know. "Cosmos" changed everything.
When I saw the book, I just couldn't resist buying it and since that day, I have read it four times. This book and "Cosmos" series can be considered the most important milestones in the popularization of science. Dr. Sagan worked all his life towards this goal and many people like myself are in his debt for introducing us to the marvelous world of science.
The book, as compared to the series, is not that simple to understand for a person who has no knowledge of some of the terms used in the book. But even the stuff that one can understand is awesome and makes one wonder about the universe we are living in.
My recommendation to everyone is to read this book and you'll be a different human being by the time you finish it. It will change the way you think.

If any layman should ever read a science book, it would have to be this one. Carl Sagan's brilliance and charming personality make the realm of astrophysics accessible and even exciting. There's such a poetic warmth to his view of universe that when he speaks of galaxies and supernovas, it reads like a fairytale. Rather than delve into messy and boring equations, he guides you through the logical thought processes from rudimentary observations to complete theories. Through his fluid prose, the grandeur and complexity of the cosmos seems almost simple to understand.
For a field that is deemed cold and inhuman, Sagan is a shining example that the pursuit of science can be driven by passion. Cosmos is not just about distant stars and nebula, but it envelops all fields of knowledge: art, philsophy, history, biology, physics and even religion to show how they are all interconnected. Sagan weaves between these fields to show that from the bleak uncaring coldness of the Cosmos, humanity arose whether for some purpose or not. The fact is, we exist and hold full responsiblity for our future, and perhaps the future of the Cosmos.

"Cosmos" by Carl Sagan is by far one of the most influential non-fiction books I have ever read, with "Demon-Haunted World" and Stephen Hawkings' "A Brief History of Time" as the other two.
70% of the world's population evade science for one of three reasons: 1) Its complexity. 2) Its lack of entertainment. 3)Its cold indifference, lack of magic and beauty. But anyone who understands science slightly will know none of these things are real! Science is the quest of knowledge and truth, objective truth, not a subjective view that depends solely on the state of mind of the observer. Those who try to solve a mathematical problem or tried to determine the variables and constants of a physical phenomena (conservation of angular momentum, gravity,) know the beauty behind one of the most noble activities of the human being.
If Isaac Newton and Edgar Allan Poe talked about the Universe, I beat my Mind they would share many points in common.
A great mind expanding book by on of the very best science authors/memorable figures of modern history, Carl Sagan.

I am staggered that there are anything but 5 star ratings for this book, sadly in this dumbed down age, we may have lost some of our ability to wonder at the vastness of creation and contemplate our place in it. This book manages to be all things to all men, I have 3 degrees (not in astro-physics!) and in no way feel that this book condescends the reader, and feel that any one with any level of education would get so much from this wonderful book.

Carl Sagan must have been a wonderful man to have learned from, one of those rare creatures that takes his or her enthusiasm for their subject and infects others with it.

I find some of the concepts mind boggling and I think it's a good thing that we are all reminded about the size of the universe and what a rare and precious thing we are as a species.

Carl Sagan left so much for mankind that it's hard to say which of his contributions stand highest in importance---his many books, his lectures, the "Cosmos" series or countless others. Certainly, this book ranks most high. Sagan does a marvelous of spinning a silver web of wonder, subtly explaining complex issues without losing a beat, and leaving readers with that all-important treasure--faith. When finished reading, one sits back and just thinks.

Some have criticized the ending built around pi, but it's an imperfectly perfect ending that only a Carl Sagan could come up with. No one ever said he had all the answers (or was God)--only that he could leave the reader realizing that, deep in the terrible complexities of this universe, there really are answers we've never yet dreamed of.

Andy O'Hara - [...]

If any twentieth-century work of popular scientific literature deserves to stand the test of time, it is "Cosmos". As most of its readers will quickly point out, there are few books that have managed to so adeptly pull off the dual feat of entertaining and education an audience. Yet there is more to this book than those aspects alone; I would argue that the most noteworthy aspect of this text is its ability to fully convey to us, in all of its splendor, the vastness of our universe, and the sheer joy that comes with attempting to understand even a small part of it. One gets the sense that, deep down (before his tragic passing), Carl Sagan was a giddy schoolboy with a telescope, whose great love in life was sharing the beauty, wonder, and glorious potential he saw in the stars with as many different people as he could. Passionate people like that are often mocked, sometimes even despised, by a society which disdains eccentric orbits, be they of a human or planetary nature; yet the world is a far richer place because intellectuals like Carl Sagan exist. You owe it to yourself to read this book.

This is not a review of the book itself, but a review of the audiobook version. I like Levar Burton's voice. The problem I have with his reading of this may be only a personal complaint, but I feel I should share it in case it might bother others considering purchasing it.

The problem I have is his annoying point of reading "accents" instead of just using his own voice. When he reads bits which are quotes from Newton, etc. he uses a ridiculous caricatured version of a foreign accent. It is so annoying, it puts me off the audio. Just use your OWN voice!

It is so off-putting and distracting, it makes the book unenjoyable for me. At other times, he uses this pseudo "full of awe" voice. This is not Lord of the Rings! It's a book by Sagan. This is the reason I can't bare to rate it below three-stars.

I am honored to say I began my career as a physicist when, as a young child, I watched with utter awe the television series "Cosmos". With that series Carl Sagan opened my mind to what can be knowable, given the right tools - and I have not looked back since. He has been called a great communicator and not a great scientist. This I question - because he was more popular than other scientists, that makes him inferior? Regardless of his credentials as a scientist, he undoubtedly began many other scientific careers in addition to my own. Certainly one of these "academic progeny" will change the world for the better, and for this we all must salute him. Cosmos the series, and Cosmos the book, are brilliant for expanding our minds to both what is knowable, and making the knowable knowledge.

It is almost seven years since the author left us, and considering the magnitude of his accomplishments, no review of them can possibly do them justice. It is doubtful that any other person has instilled as many individuals as the author to enter the scientific profession. But the author has done much more than inspire, for he has given in this book. and the accompanying television series, the most accurate portrayal ever of human history. It is a history of achievement and daring creativity, where war and conflict are in the final analysis very rare. It is a history of confidence and courage to explore new domains. It is a history of both innate and discovered genius, and one where the truth always wins over illusion. There has been much that has been discovered in science since the author has passed on, but I think it can be stated with confidence that he would be both pleased and astonished of just what has been accomplished.
Indeed, look at us now:
....for with steady hands, the biologists are splicing and dicing in our genetic kitchens. Shuffling DNA like a deck of cards, they hybridize our fauna and flora, changing and accelerating their evolution. They extract silk from the udders of goats, make plants intolerant to insects, and they build electronic circuits and cure diseases using viruses, which they also engineer to become our friends, not our foes. With confidence and pride in who we are, we are poised to make copies of ourselves, and choose our progeny's phenotype with ease.Tapping on our keyboards, we blast our way through an enormity of DNA strings, finding similarities of our genes with other lifeforms, and discovering our genetic kinship with all life on Earth. What makes us so can now be put on disk: we can now carry our genome in our pocket.
....with objects that loop around our globe, and with others anchored on its surface, the astronomers have found other worlds orbiting other suns. Turning around our cold-war satellites to look outward instead of downward, they have observed the perplexing gamma ray bursters. Beginning as a journey with the naked eye, our technology has expanded our vision across the whole spectrum. Looking up has always been a habit with us. Our evolved up-right posture is a cause and proof of our optimism and confidence. We are natural astronomers.
....the engineers, the computer and cognitive scientists, are teaching machines to think, to talk, to dance, to play cards, to sing, to compose music, to trade, to read and write novels and poetry, to prove theorems, to diagnose our diseases, to judge our cases, to manage our networks, to discover and classify new objects in the heavens and in our accelerators . We find exhiliration in the presence of the silicon geniuses. Their minds are a reflection of ours. In space travel they have become our surrogates.
.....banging gold atoms, electrons, and protons together, the physicists are finding out the patterns of nature. They celebrate the creation of the gluon plasma and the detection of the flavors of neutrinos. Stopping light in matter, they bring about the long anticipated condensation of Bose. With understanding of the world of the small increasing steadily each decade, attention is turned to its engineering, to the rise of the nanomachines.
....we have all hooked up to the Internet spider. We send messages to others half-way around the world. We ping our friends and relatives with our images and our words. Immersing ourselves in exabytes of information, we google through it with delight. The Web has become our playground, our shopping center, our bank, and our oracle....
Indeed, as the author points out in the last chapter of the book, we have walked far. We now sit on the knee of an exponential curve. We become exhilirated at the prospect of whirlwind scientific and technological development. We are confident that this century will be even more breathtaking than the last.
The book summarizes what is best not only about science but also about human existence. Written by one man, it speaks accurately about all humankind. Consisting only of a few hundred pages, it says in print what the vast majority of humans have done throughout history. The author will always be one of my heros, for his optimism in unequaled and his respect for truth constant through time. He explains with joyous enthusiasm the gentle stirring, that quiet feeling of understanding something for the first time: the rhyme and romance of scientific discovery.

I am a great fan of Sagan's. There has not been a book by him which I have not read. There are reasons for it. The poetic eloquence of a live being who makesyou feel the majesty and beauty of the world, the cosmos, the skies, the earth. The beauty of being alive and being able to enjoy. I do not believe I can do justice to it in words. The experience of reading it is totally transforming!
There will always be better books, so I give this one four stars. But those who can appreciate better books can never ignore this one. If it were not all about science, if Sagan has been a novelist, it could have garnered half a Nobel for literature. But this book makes you think and feel and makes you be glad you are alive, live in a Cosmos vast beyond any imagination and glad you live in the same century Sagan lived!

THE UNIVERSE IS ALL THAT EVER WAS OR EVER WILL BE. These eight words are the opening of Cosmos. The book that was the companion to the thirteen- part 1980s television miniseries that made science and astronomy knowable to the average American. Cosmos takes our understanding of the universe from the Stone Age to the Space Age.Written and shown at the time when the Voyagers were making their surveys of Jupiter and Saturn, it explained our place in the universe and made think about what would happen if we had a nuclear war. He took us from harsh Venus to Mars and beyond. All the while being the patient, tolerant professor that he was. Whether he was talking about Leonardo da Vinci or Albert Einstein, he held us in rapt attention. Blair Colquhoun @cybertours.com

Although this book is well over 20 years old now, it's still timeless in many ways. The photographs and drawings of various objects in the universe alone makes this book worth buying. But the real power of this book comes from the writings of Sagan himself. He has a rare talent among scientists: the ability to both synthesize various scientific fields together as a philosophical entity, and then to effectively communicate the meaning of what the fields are to the lay public. Most scientists at his level are so deeply immersed in the specialized literature that they can't even remotely explain what they are trying to do. Sagan understands that all of science is related, that evolution has a basis grounded in physics, and most importantly, that religion has tried to suppress the most important discoveries in science, and is still doing so today!

You are doing yourself a disservice if you have never exposed yourself to the work of Carl Sagan. After reading this book I immediately checked out and fell in love with the television show as well. Even though Cosmos is nearly 30 years old now, Sagan's remarkable sense of awe speaks just as clearly now as I'm sure it did then. A quote on the back of the book says "Cosmos is like the college course in science you always wanted to take but never knew a professor teach" and I couldn't agree more. It's a great crime that no science class I ever took in school, college included, ever took the liberty of exploring the Cosmos in the way Sagan does effortlessly. If you have ever looked at the stars and wondered, this book is for you.

My education and upbringing have taken place within a society that respects science and the awesome reality it attempts to describe. I am sure this is due, in large part, to the bold and tireless work of scientists such as the late Carl Sagan in capturing the hearts and minds of so many with works like Cosmos.

In this book, Sagan gives us a tantalizing sample of the great knowledge we humans have amassed over the past two thousand years, interrupted by the ignorance of the Dark Ages and revived with the Renaissance. Incorporating history, biology, astronomy, physics, religion, and politics into the discussion, he discusses how exploration of the Cosmos can help answer the timeless question: Who are we?

Sagan shows in this book how, by reaching out to the stars, by continually questioning and expanding our visions of the universe, we humans can better understand our place in the Cosmos. Although we have found our home planet to be a "mote of dust circling a humdrum star in the remotest corner of an obscure galaxy," we are nonetheless extremely precious beings within the vast emptiness of the Cosmos. Our origins lie with the stars, and in the stars rests our destiny as a race, should we escape the petty quarrels that engulf our governments even today.

An inspiring work with valuable insight into the value of science and reason, as well as what it means to be human. In spite of its age (25 years!), I heartily recommend Cosmos to anyone that has ever been struck by the beauty and wonder of the universe we inhabit.

Carl Sagan, who was an agnostic, was undeniably one of the greatest educators to ever have lived. I was fortunate to have been given a copy by my grandfather at a young age, and it was one of the very first books over 300 pages I actually read to completion. Even though I didn't understand half of it at the time, it had a profound effect on my way of thinking when most kids my age still thought Santa Claus was real. Cosmos is brilliantly clear and undeniably human, and Sagan's simplicity of thought and genuine curiosity and imagination about the world around him are contagious. The progression of science and knowledge, which Sagan thought as inevitable over time, served only as a backdrop for a greater question, which was the human condition.

Unfortunately, the original hardcover version of Cosmos is now out of print. The paperback doesn't do this masterwork justice in my opinion so if anyone is interested in obtaining a copy I strongly suggest searching Ebay for the hardcover, as much of this book's wonderous effect was the beautiful illustrations throughout it.

- Louis

Reading Carl Sagan's book is just pleasure, I wish my textbooks were like this! Once you start reading the book, its difficult to keep it down.

The book talks about variety of topics about cosmos and it's cousins. The scope of the book is just too vast making the book a must read. The book starts with some of the very basic concepts and stretches to the deep corners of the universe.

As always, his language is simple makes even complex subjects easily understandable.

"Biology is more like history than physics. You have to know the past to understand the present."

I first saw the PBS series "COSMOS" when I was about 16 years old. It was a revelation. Carl Sagan was an intelligent and skilled purveyor of the whole story of the universe as seen from the perspective of we curious human beings. This book is really a transcription of the series with each episode corresponding to a chapter. Ultimately, the success of this series for me was the integration of so much information into such a brilliantly unified thread. Quite simply, Carl Sagan shows us why the universe is so fascinating, and why it would be worthwhile to try and preserve the human race so that we may continue to probe further into the fantastic possibilities that may await us...

at a time when the american public was being driven away from taking a personal interest in science, carl sagan stepped in and filled the void with his television series "cosmos" that remains in the imagination of everyone who lived back then to see it. Along with its well chosen soundtrack, the series is chronicled here, in paperback. the reading is actually more rewarding than the series as the book goes into greater detail and into more directions without the distraction of the marginal production techniques of the times. the book stands today as a clarion call for nations to disarm, for the status quo to graduate to a farther reaching level, for the individual to take a personal interest in current events and life in general through the rewarding lens of science. the meticulous detail and accessibility of the writing, that reads like a separate episode, are introduced with well chosen quotes, specific details and numbers, and a directed focus that moves at a fast enough pace to hold reader interest make cosmos an outstanding value at under 10 dollars. highly recommended.

I first saw the series COSMOS on TV in about 1980 when I was about 12, and have been searching for similar material ever since. Carl Sagan is able to capture the mystery and the beauty of astronomy, science, art and religion in a way that most poeple can follow, and in a way that is interesting and invigorating. He is a very clear thinker and presenter. And this book, based on that very popular TV series of the same name, I found in an old book store, which I immediately grabbed. Here was something of my childhood, and something very special. The book did not disappoint. It is filled with stunning images, photographs, illustrations, diagrams and so on. And the text is fun, enlightening, clear, visionary, and precise. Not surprising, since it is written by an atronomer at heart. It is also advisable to search around and buy the illustrated edition-the illustrations add much to the text.

Carl places the earth on the shores of the cosmic ocean-the title of the first chapter. He traces religious, artistic and scientific investigations into the 'cosmos' throughout the millenia, and the amount of useful historical information he brings up is quite extraordinary. He draws together the thoughts of ancient cultures like the Greeks, Babylonians, Stone Age man, Renaissance thinkers, poets, artists, and famous scientists, and ties these in with many modern discoveries concerning the nature of the universe. One can see his strong leanings on the likelihood of extraterrestial life and the SETI project between the lines, as well as his views on religion and its place in the human psyche. One particularly interesting peice describes the downfall of the old greek science and the destruction of the library at Alexandria, and how these tie in with his views on history, science and religion in general.

Carl Sagan is a very clear and thoughtful writer. It is obvious that his knowledge of human nature and science is vast and humane. He worries much about the mususe of science, and the future of man. This book is a must for lovers of general science, human nature and destiny. As such it is a timeless classic. I'll close with the books closing words:

"For we are the local embodiment of a Cosmos grown to self awareness. We have begun to contemplate our origins:starstuff pondering the stars; organised assemblages of ten billion billion billion atoms considering the evolution of atoms; tracing their long journey by which, here at least, consciousness arose. Our loyalties are to the species and the planet. We speak for earth. Our obligation to survive is owed not just to ourselves but also to that Cosmos, ancient and vast, from which we sprung."

It's very interesting and informative. You can learn a lot about the cosmos.
I would though believe in UFOs and extraterrestrials, which Carl Sagan adamantly doesn't believe in. There also isn't evidence for evolution, or rather Darwinism, as Carl Sagan explains it. All supposed evidence can be disputed. But still, is a good series and book. (According to 'The Carl Sagan Conspiracy' by Donald L. Zygutis, he was silenced by NASA about his belief in ancient aliens.)
I liked this series when it showed on television. The series has updates at the end of a few episodes, like the ones about Venus and Mars, which were done in about 1990. There're also subtitle updates, which were added in about 2000 to some episodes. This book excludes those updates. (It's probably the same with other editions. The DVD sets include them.)

i cant describe how much i enjoyed this book. it describes the evolution of the solar system, of life, of civilization, and of science. it explains what humanity knew and didnt know at different points in our history, and the astounding contribution of different men and women to that knowledge. i have been fascinated by astronomy since the age of 5, but i have never had such a clear mental picture of the ridiculous scope and breadth of our universe. i dont believe i have ever been more satisfied after reading a book. the best damn 5 or 6 dollars i have ever spent. there isnt a person alive i dont recommend this to. i encourage you to purchase this book, it may show you how futile and feeble our everyday desires are.

Another one of my habitual re-reads, Cosmos dazzles with scientific speculation. I'm easily put-off by authors who lecture pedantically, enthralled by their grasp of a subject and interested in little else than hearing the drone of their own voice. Carl Sagan is NOT that lecturer. One senses intuitively a deep deep passion for our universe and a desire to communicate that passion and to enjoin in questioning and debating and prodding and discovering. Carl Sagan was one of the few modern scientists who managed to garner rock-star fame in an era where universal idiocy is heralded and embraced and celebrated, and his insistence on eradicating ignorance and superstition and pseudo-science was vital in the national debate, and his loss all the more painfully felt in an era when 'Creationism' stands to devour us whole and place one more nail in the coffin of reason. We could sorely use some more Carls... with Cosmos, Carl has left us a magnificent legacy to the dedication to pure scientific inquiry. Thank you for inspiring Carl. You are owed a debt of gratitude for all you have done.

"Cosmos" is Carl Sagan's masterpiece! He provides us with a very lucid, understandable history of the Universe and how galaxies, solar systems, planets, and our biosphere came into existence.
This book reaches way out into the farthest reaches of the Universe, as well as deep within each of us explaining the DNA that makes us who we are. Carl Sagan literally touches on every known field of science as he explains how a brilliant flash of cosmic energy that was transformed into matter eventually provided the stuff needed to make you and me.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Not only does it inform, but it truly captivates the imagination and provides the basic groundwork for future ponderings.

Carl Sagan's Cosmos, tells the strory of 15 billion years of cosmic history like no one else can.
The book shows how broad and deep Carl's interests extend and draws the reader into a world of fascination. Although the book is primarily about how science has developed in our society the book touches on subjects such as history, philosophy, religion, cultures and so fourth. The book is written in simple terms and is understandable to those without a background in science.
Carl has an amazing ability to write with such enthusiasim and sincerity. Although the book was written at the height of the cold war it reflects an overall optimisim and hope for our species and planet. Carl Sagan is a remarkable human being and humanitarian as is reflected in all of his books. Cosmos is in some way his manifesto and I believe his best book. Carl's death was a loss not just to science but also to our species.
Carl Sagan is my favourite author and Cosmos my favourite book.
I recommend Cosmos to all of those who can read! *****!!!

What a book cosmos is! Based on the hit 13 part series "Cosmos", shown on PBS, Cosmos allows the reader to venture into the distant cosmos through profound writing and concise points. Carl Sagan, writes on various subjects regading the cosmos, covering the history of it in a simple manner. The books containts inherent images that enables a visual representation of what is being said. A helpful medium indeed. In one sense, the book is virtually identical to the series in text, but due to limitations on television, Sagan is able to cover much more information by which he was unable to cover on the Television series. Sagan not only speaks soley of the cosmos as the title suggests, but much more including genetics,evolution and neuroscience. Sagan is able to write on these subjects distinct from his prime field of study in an ingenious manner still. Cosmos generates a basic understanding of the vast ambiguious universe by which we inhibit. Due to this book being written during the cold war, Sagan devotes a whole chapter to the threat of nuclear war, and the hazardous implications to our Earth. A plausible point that many neglect. A great read!

What more can I possibly say about Cosmos? Epic in scope, this book is probably one of the greatest pop science books to have ever been written. Sagan takes us through a lightning fast journey through a staggering summary of the scientific enterprise written in beautiful ly poetic prose. If there was only one book that I recommend that everyone read it would be this one.

As one of the great astronomer-writers of the Twentieth Century, Carl Sagan was extraordinarily communicative with the non-scientific public, able and willing to take the time and trouble to break down the mysteries of the universe into comprehensible fragments. The purpose of this book, which can be considered a companion to the acclaimed television series, is to explain what we know about the universe from a cosmological perspective and why we need to know more about it.
Physicists often talk of the unity of the branches of physics: the interrelation and application of mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and optics to the motion of everything from galaxies to subatomic particles. Similarly, Sagan's major theme is the unity of cosmology with the natural and physical sciences that define what we know about the Earth. Does the stifling, carbon dioxide-choked atmosphere of Venus imply anything about the greenhouse effect on Earth? Was a nearby cosmic explosion called a supernova indirectly responsible for the disappearance of the dinosaurs? What would be the biological consequences for the survivors of a global nuclear war? The answers to these questions are vital to the continuation of life as we know it.
Sagan also identifies cosmology with its own history. He lavishes reverent detail on the ancient Greek and Alexandrian study of the stars and planetary motions, the pioneering work by the Renaissance scientists Brahe, Kepler, Copernicus, Huygens, and others, and the men who revolutionized science with the formulation of laws of motion, Newton and Einstein.
The scope of "Cosmos" is tremendous, from the farthest expanses of the universe containing a hundred billion galaxies in addition to our own Milky Way, at the end of a spiraling arm of which our solar system is located; down to the lone electron circling the nucleus of a hydrogen atom, the most plentiful single entity in the cosmos and the source of everything we know, love, and are. In between there is discussion of the unmanned spacecraft expeditions to investigate "our" planets: Mars with its boulder-strewn, desert-like terrain; the gaseous giant Jupiter; Io, a Jovian moon of incredible redness, spotted with volcanic orifices and resembling an unappealing sauce-covered meatball; Saturn with its ice rings. Would these worlds contain life? Using what we know about the evolution of life on Earth, Sagan hypothesizes how different types of lifeforms might develop on worlds with different environments.
Even a casual interest in cosmology requires a fascination with astronomical distances and unthinkably long spans of time in which a human lifetime is but a blink of an eye. However, Sagan seems to write also for those who would rather relate cosmic arcana to familiar terms, and in this sense he is a grand entertainer: A thought experiment that provides a simple but fanciful illustration of the concept of black holes uses the tea party scene in "Alice in Wonderland" as a setting. "Cosmos" neither complicates unnecessarily nor insults your intelligence; very few "popular" science books will capture your imagination so well.

I read this book about the time the PBS TV series "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan was on the air. Both the book and the TV series was fascinating and I consider this book one of the best in my Library. Numerous other reviews will give you a good insight into the detail of the subject matter, for me I can say that this is truly a great book and for scientific content is my favorite. Carl has since died but his thought provoking style and clear and understandable discussion of some very complex scientific and cosmological topics is outstanding. A great book to read with hundreds of excellent photographs and diagrams.

Es un libro excelente, donde se discute sobre la posibilidad de la vida en otros mundos, no solo en nuestro sistema solar. Da un punto de vista muy interesante acerca de como buscar la vida fuera de la tierra. Expone acertadamente que estamos buscando una forma de vida organica basada en el Carbono, pero la vida se puede desarrollar de otra forma indecifrable para nosotros, ya que esta forma de vida ha evolucionado en un mundo diferente. Lo recomiendo para los que les gusta estos tópicos, pero esta vez visto desde el punto de vista de un cientifico no de los desaciertos de la seudociencia.

Over 250 color photographs highlight this book based on Carl Sagan's TV series by the same name. Sagan has the distinctive ability to make science understandable, exciting, and fun, and this talent is displayed all through this book. The photographs alone are astounding. But, when Sagan intertwines the growth of science with civilization, we get a new understanding of our past. And maybe even some hope for the future. This is definitely a coffee table book of the first order.

At first Cosmos is a bit of an ambiguous title. Along with the glowing reviews that adorn the covers of the book, one cannot be blamed for thinking that it is going to deal with Astronomy for a majority of the book. While it does just that, Sagan also takes the liberty of delving into multiple tangents that explore the greater depths of the world we live in from Biology to Physics with sprinklings of History and biography. The book came after the documentary so if you are familiar with it then you will notice the text is straight from the documentary. If you have access to a streaming service that offers Cosmos as an option, I suggest watching the various episodes that correspond to the various titles of the chapters to enjoy the stunning(Although dated) visuals and music that it offers. A very ambitious and successful undertaking from the mind of a brilliant scientist.

An excellent read for both the avid astronomer and the common Joe, Sagan presents his ideas clearly and thoughtfully. The way he discusses some of the ideas of early scientists and natural philosophers along with his views on modern astronomy should captivate every reader and inspire audiences of all ages. A truly wonderful classic in popular scientific literature!

The Book Cosmos by Carl Sagan is the best book to read if you want to know everything. With it's extensivly detailed explanations and stunning pictures, there IS no better book about the Universe as it is today, as it was, and as it will be. I am only 14 and read this book last year. It opened my eyes to what is an unimaginably large universe, and helped me decide what to do with my life.
I was very sad to learn of Carl Sagan's death (20th Dec 1996) as he was probably the best person to talk to to find out about anything.

In deep Respect,

Russell Smith

Carl Sagan was, if this book is any example, an extremely intelligent and caring man. His voice intertwines the stories of history, philosophy, and science, and every sentence is both brilliant and fascinating. But the best thing about Cosmos is that it makes ME feel really smart. I can follow everything Sagan says, even though it's some pretty deep stuff, because he's so good at telling it on the level of the intelligent, interested layman. The last few chapters of the book may seem dated, but they really aren't; the "enemy" has changed but the issues are still the same. I heartily recommend this book for anyone who is the least bit interested in science. It is wonderful!

A great read which has stood the test of time. Carl Sagan's words on humanity's discoveries and its future are as true today as they were 34 years ago. In his words: "We are, each of us, largely responsible for what gets put into our brains, for what, as adults, we wind up caring for and knowing about."
This book is definitely worth putting into your brain.

'Cosmos' is surely one of the best books EVER. The wondrous cosmological mysteries and large questions of mankind are covered and expounded upon with humility and great inquisitiveness. The origins and vastness of our universe, time and space, and our own place in the galaxy and universe will really drive home the folly of war and other forms of violence we perpetrate against each other irrationally (in many cases in the name of religion or race such as 9/11). This great book should be a 'must read' in every high school science classroom.

Sagan will open your eyes to the world around you in this fascinating analysis of Earth, the planets, the sun and stars in "Cosmos". Not only does he unlock the mysteries of the universe in an understandable way, but he also ties in human evolutionary biology and science history quite skillfully. What I found to be most interesting about this book is that Sagan interjects his own opinions, interpretations, and theories as he writes, rather than just listing facts. As you read, you experience the thinking process of a great mind in action.

This is the classic book that got me interested and excited about science in general and astronomy in particular when I was 12 or 13 years old. I haven't read it in a while, but remember it being an exciting read not just becuase it introduces you to some fundamentals about science, but because Sagan personalizes and humanizes everything in his book, from the ancient astronomers to the possibility of life outside of our solar system. It's a book full of wonderment and hope and optimism for the future, but with cautionary warnings and thoughtful musings.

Sagan takes the reader from one end of the universe to the other. His unyielding heart sores like an eagle to the furthest reaches of space and time. Despite our limited technology and earth-boundness, Sagan breaks free from earth and makes one invision this grand universe in it's entirety.

Few minds will ever arise like Sagan's. His brain knew virtually no bounds, neither in cognition, nor imagination. He is a bulwark for truth and sober thinking. He is never easy to disagree with.

Cosmos is so informative...about Earth, about space and matters of science. Sagan has so much to say about everything. His tremendous mind made him an invaluable asset to our species.

Another thing that fascinates me about Sagan was his ability to accept our inevitable mortality as a planet and race. Instead of getting depressed about our gloomy fate in the grave, we should be like Sagan and realize that this is our time to shine in the spotlight of the sun. Carl Sagan was a champion of the human race, a torch who's brightness, even in death, still refuses to go out.

Get this book. You will not regret it.

(JH)

www.ministerturnsatheist.org

Though this point has been time and time again, perhaps the greatest legacy that Carl Sagan left to us is how he was able to popularize science for the masses. While presenting a picture of a vast universe, one in which humanity is neither noteworthy nor the end result of the universe's creation, Sagan does not make the reader feel insignificant or forlorn. Rather, the reader is filled with a sense of awe and is inspired by the possibilities the cosmos holds for our species. It really isn't hyperbole when I claim that, for many, "Cosmos" is a spiritual, as well as an intellectual, journey of the imagination.

Everyone should read this excellent book, written by the late Carl Sagan; it should be read in high schools and everyplace where science is taught, because it is one of the most mind-opening books I have ever read. Although it mainly deals with astronomy in an excellent and easy to understand manner, one aspect that it is worth mentioning is the fact that Dr. Sagan was a science loving person that loved and respected all nature, and that is something that can be read between the lines, because he inserts in some parts of the book captivating pieces of his philosophy and his love for the universe and our fragile place in it; he transmits the reader his love for all this things and his optimism that, although we are heading towards out own ruin, it is also in our own hands to avoid self-destruction. The final chapter, "Who speaks for Earth", is well worth reading two or three times, to "acquire" at least a small piece of Dr. Sagan's conscience in the dangers of nuclear war, but also some of his optimistic ideas about our future. I think the Earth lost one of its main scientists and defenders when Dr. Sagan passed away.

Sagan does a fantastic job of explaining both the fascinating discoveries of science, and it's role modern in society. Cosmos is a 15 billion year history of the universe, through the eyes of science as they have been gradually opened, and an insight into the very best of human nature.

Dr. Sagan did a wonderful job of making thousands of years of scientific discovery, not only palpable to people with no scientific education, but concisely conveys the significance of their implications as well. I have a feeling the ideas contained in this book, will leave me inspired for years to come.

"Cosmos" is so much more than a science book. It's a history book and a book that teaches so much about life and where we are headed. This book taught me so much about what is out there and how we are all related. "Cosmos" is exceptionally readable and you will keep the pages turning. Sagan seems to sum up the heavens and the earth all in one fantastic book. Read it not just to learn about evolution or astronomy, but to get a clear view of how the universe really works and how we relate to it.

I love this book. I end up reading it over and over, many times a year, despite its age. Sagan's love for man, the universe, and everything is so apparent and infectious. I wish he was still around today to give us more books and encourage us in the pursuit of knowledge.

Reading this book changed my life. It was back in 1988 when I was 17 years old. I didn't know _what_ to do with my life; but after reading this, I knew I was a physicist at heart. I ented UNLV in 1989 as a physics major.

I give him credit for opening my eyes to the beautiful universe around us. He helps to put things into perspective in terms that we all understand. (I remember a course I took in college: "The Social of Science," my instructor didn't consider Sagan a real scientist, mearly a science populist.) I think he was one of the most important scientists to ever live, he brought all of these wonders into our living rooms. His enthusiam for science was very contageous.

I haven't read the book for years, but I still remember one of my favorite facinating facts from Cosmos. Sagan explains that the core of the sun is hot enough to be in a gaseous state, yet the gravitational pull is so strong that it is 16 times denser than lead.

While I read this book, I repeatedly said to myself, "Wow."

Very few people have ever been able to write in such a way that can render nothing of the imagination or fantasy more compelling than the realities of what actually is. Incredibly, 30 years later, very few things in this book are truly outdated, and there is still no book out there which can so accessibly and comprehensively serve as a "You Are Here" starting guide to all that is. It remains an essential and irresistible read for anyone with a natural intellectual curiosity and desire to understand.

This is the first book by Sagan that I read. It was for my high school's summer reading list. At that time, I wasn't really into science, so I read half of it and set it down for almost a year...only to eventually finish it and was amazed by it all! This book lead me into the realm of science (something my public school could not have done alone, or at least it would have been less likely to do so). Though I am not going into astronomy, I am entering a scientific field and I owe it to Carl Sagan!

I have read a number of very, very good popularisations of science including some by Dawkins, Hawking, Gould, Diamond, Asimov etc. But none are as accessible as Sagan's works. Cosmos is the book that has most influenced my life as it gave me the "love of learning". This love is the most precious gift I have ever received and it inspires me to try to give it to others. I am amazed that I still own my original copy as I have given it away to so many people encouraging them to read. Cosmos should be compulsory reading for all 15 year olds. If it had been there would have been no need for Mr Sagan's last book about the shocking rise of ignorance and pseudoscience in our society. If you read only one book in your life, this is the one. If you read frequently, you have no excuse for missing this book.

While I am aware of some newer research, I believe Cosmos is a great read if not to inspire or develop a love of science. Some reviewers have complained that the final chapters are boring. This is because they deal with a scientist's impression of Cold War-era hostility. Though the Cold War is over, there are still many lessons to be learned from Cosmos about the uniqueness of our human existence and the possibilities of the universe.

Eye opening and spellbinding reading. For those who like to think and reason, this is the book for you. If you want to get one of those "Whoa" feelings after reading something truly awesome and mind expanding (yet easily digested due to Sagan's knack for teaching complex subjects with simple analogies), this is the book for you. If you believe the earth is only 3,000 years old, you probably won't pick this up anyway, but you should as it will make you think.
A permanent resident of my all time favorite books list.

This was the 20th century's greatest story-book on us,the citizens of the planet Earth.I first read this in grade school and was spellbound, by Sagan's magickal review of the human race and the universe.No other book equalled it's eloquence,expressing to all readers,the need to save our species ,the planet and all her creatures. -(Reader Beware!)-One thing that is largely left out is ,Realpolitik.Sagan was an "ivory tower scientist" and also an "arm-chair atheist".Political Reality and Spirituality,can not be removed from our human society and our human pysche. Yet,by writing this momentous book,he remains a "true literary emissary for positive social change". It would't hurt the masses of readers,by continuing to explore this book,now into the 21 century .

This came up in a search for a kid's book, and it said it was appropriate for 8-10 year olds. It definitely is not. Also, the product I received does not have a library of congress number, the font is about 8 point, and it just looks odd--like it was printed off of someone's home printer. Definitely returning it.

This book is not about the scientific accuracy of Sagan's predictions and musings. If Sagan wanted to be purely scientific, this book wouldn't have been written. The fact is that we don't KNOW enough about what's out there to make scientific predictions. What we do have is our imagination, and our knowledge of how the universe works. Sagan does an excellent job of using his imagination to come up with different possibilities for us to ponder. He speculates about which might be more likely, but he doesn't claim scientific accuracy. This book will expand your mind and give you a mature outlook on the world and our place in the universe.

Cosmos was the foundation of my life and dreams, Dr. Sagan made me dream that I could reach the stars and travel far in space and time. His 13 episodes TV series is of the best that has been aired in all the history of the TV and this book allows you to relive those magical moments. After reading this book you will feel that your mind and understanding of the universe has been enhanced and you'll be one with the Cosmos. We are stardust and we are the conscience of the Universe.

Carl Sagan's book is permeated with love for knowledge and reason and those who cultivate them, and fascination for the Cosmos. It is really charming to see a man who writes just like someone who genuinely enjoys knowledge and wants to you to join in. I don't know how was Mr Sagan in person, but his persona in this book is someone benign, cheerful, enchanted by the magnificence of the Universe, always ready to express admiration for scientists and reasonable men of any confession, and saddened by ignorance and oscurantism. It is such a positive book, I would have loved to read this in my teens, I would surely have taken up a career in Physics :). This book makes me want to know so much more.

The best advice I can give, regarding this book, is to GIVE it to a young person interested in science or space. You will plant a seed that will grow forever. Sagan's masterpiece takes the mind on a wonderful journey through the stars as well as through other space centered events. Highest recommendation as a text for learning as well as a fine read for anyone interested in the subject.

This is the best astronomy book of all time , it not only speaks about astronomy , but many other interesting stuff , the brain , life , DNA , etc. I really enjoy the analysis about extraterrestrial life. I knew that comets are made in most of the sense with water ice , but I didn't know that they are also made by methane ice and amonia ice. A greate master piece of science. I really miss Carl Sagan.

This book covers the gambit, from the origins of the universe, to evolution by natural selection. It is very interesting and readable, and is as much of a "page turner" as a science book can possibly be.

You will be entertained while reading it, and you will feel smarter after you have read it.

Sagan gave us a great gift with this work! A diverse collection of fact and belief, Cosmos explains in laymen's terms, very complex theories, astronomical information, and scientific history, as it relates to Earth and space. Well written, and well organized, it provides thought-provoking ideas and concepts in a manner that holds the reader's interest. As entertaining as a classic novel, and informative as a great textbook. Those who enjoyed the PBS series 'Connections' will greatly enjoy it's literary predecessor.

Always interestig and easy to understand for the layman. Sagan covers just about everything you need to know on what we know about the universe and how it works.

The information in this books flows from subject to subject flawlessly and is always kept interesting with anecdotes of events within the scientific world during these times of world changing discoveries.

This is the pinnacle of Sagan's work and has set the standard for all related works. Its brilliance lies in the simplicity in which Sagan explains the complexity of the Universe. However I am not writing this review merely to praise one of mankind's gems, but to bring to light the ignorant remarks of another reviewer, in hopes that others, who are not familiar with Sagan's work will not take them as truths. Sagan was not an atheist and was in fact one of the more spiritual and religious scientific minds the world has ever seen. As proof of this I will quote the last lines of Can We Know the Universe? Reflections on a Grain of Salt..from Broca's Brain:
"A universe that is unknowable is no fit place for a thinking being. The ideal universe for us is one very much like the universe we inhabit. And I would guess that this is not really much of a coincidence."
Those do not sound like the words of an atheist to me. How sad it is when small minds encounter great thoughts.

Carl Sagan is the answer for the people who is able of watching farer. He always tried to explain the knowledge with simple words. Sagan became the knowledge a funny play. Really he was a wise person!!!. I'm sure Sagan will be always remembered in the future like one of the men that opened the path for the route of the man to the stairs.

Carl Sagan's "Cosmos" was my first book on astrophysics and was very instrumental in my growing love of Cosmology and all things Space. He is a great writer, a bit out there sometimes but like any great science writer, he makes the material accessable to the general public in a way that is thought-provoking and educational.

The late Carl Sagen had a wonderful way of relating his apparent knowledge of everything into a form that comparative idiots can understand. His genius appears to be, not just his ability to formulate the evalution of the cosmos into something understandable to himself, but into a book understandable to those of us with IQs less than was his 150-plus. I've read this book a couple of times, as well as "A Brief History Of Time" by Stephen Hawking. Both books are wonderful in the authors' attempts to share their enthusiasm of science and physics, but the difference is Sagen's ability to simplify the topic for the common intellect. Hawking either seems unable to to so, or is tackling subject matter much too difficult for the general public. Not so for Sagen... AND Perhaps even now a life-form on another planet across a hundred billion stars from Earth is observing our planet as it appeared in the past, in a better time when the great Carl Sagen lived among us.

I consider this book one of the most important books in the field of astronomy.
Sagon did a brilliant writing job on the subject and Tyson just enhanced it.
The book inspired me write a choral work on the subject which is getting lots of play around the country owing to the Cosmos TV series and the book. Thank you Dr Tyson, I do hope we can meet some day.
Fredrick Kaufman

Cosmos is a not a science book, it is about everthing that relates to our universe. Through its thirteen chapters, it tells the tales of human origin, scientific discoveries and space explorations of human. Many passages reflect strongly the beliefs and opinions of Carl Sagan (his faith on science as the true pathway to understanding the cosmos, his distaste of our own self-destructive instincts and mostly his sence of the insignificance of the human race against the universe), which I personally think is the most interesting and thought-provoking part of the book. All in all a GREAT book to read and treasure. Its one of those books which you borrowed it first from library, and then bought your own copy just because it's simply a book to own!

What more can be said about this book which hasn't already been said? This is the kind of book which sparks an interest in science which can't be extinguished. When you read this book, you'll be fascinated by all fields of science, from the most elementary electrons, lost in quantum physics, to the most elegant inner workings of biology, and finally, to the farthest expanses of the universe itself. Of all the books, in all the countries, written by all the authors in the present and past, this is surely the book which must be read by everyone. It would be impossible to quantify how many people's lives have been influenced by this masterful book. No other book in my library comes as highly recommended as does this one.

Sagan targets a general audience with this magnificent work! He presents the topics in a very clear and entertaining readable manner and makes them easy to understand. Isaac Asimov couldn't do a better job! This great work will stimulate many people to pursue a further quest for knowledge in science and cosmology.

A comprehensive introduction to the subject of Humanity, ranging from Science to religion, from history to art. Every chapter brims with humanity's soaring passion to know the world as it is, not how we wish it to be. And with it comes a lesson of humility. His writing is graced with unsurpassing clarity and beauty. A must read for all ages.

Cosmos changed my outlook on the world "out there". When it comes time to relax and read a really interesting book that is full of very intelligent data, pick this up. How about a great book to read the next time you take a transatlantic trip on the airplane or simply relaxing by the pool this Summer. What an enjoyment, I have probably read this over 100 times and each time I take something new from it. Cosmos is a genuine masterpiece BUY IT! Read it forever. I love Mr. Sagan. Plus it looks so impressive on your bookshelf.

I read this book about 2 years ago, I was 13. Though he may not be the greatest scientist, Sagan truly opened up a world for me which has continually been an escape from sometimes vacuous society. I was saddened by his death, but plan to continue reading about astrophysics because of his books.

Carl Sagan uses a boyish excitement that comes through the pages to explain Astronomies greatest hits since man was in a cave. Some of the concepts explained are fairly heavy but he does an excellent job of breaking them down into a digestable format for anyone with a high school education.

My first exposure to Sagan was on TV. I was watching his TV series which this book has been adapted from. It is the BEST book I've ever read. It has been on my bookshelf virtually all my life. I consider myself lucky that I have an original print copy of the book in hardcover. I'm truly saddened that he died.

I doubt there are many people that, as I have, saw each episode of Carl Sagan's PBS series "Cosmos" more often than "the Wizard of Oz." Now I understand soon they will be redoing and updating the "Cosmos" series. I must confess, I'm not really looking forward to that. Rarely is anything as good when they redo it. Carl Sagan had a way of reasoning at a pace, aiding the hearer to think on what he says. He was amiable, "fireside-ish" and you felt like he was talking directly to you one-to-one, personally and warm. Today, it's all flash, bang wiz and don't think, just buy into whatever we pump into you and try to remember it! But I'm sure to watch it anyway to `compare notes.'

To prepare and refresh myself I've re-read Carl Sagan's book "Cosmos" based on the series. Reading it now is much better than when I first read it since much of the information is closer to "second nature" to me now than when I first read it. (I Still have my high-quality, first edition, hard-cover book with the paper photo/cover of Sagan and glossy pages that have extra wide margins for my endless notes!)

The book is in need of quite a few updates from 1980.

1..., Carl Sagan taught that universe is curved whereas now it's quite established as a flat universe. He also taught of an oscillating universe and the universe could one day retract to an infinitesimal, where we now know the universe in not only expanding but increasing its rate of expansion. We are, today, most certain of countless planets in other solar systems. These and other updates would naturally be expected.

2..., In the book and the PBS series he misquotes Christiaan Huygens as saying "The world is my country, science my religion." and from thence the saying is incorrectly repeated endlessly by many others. Huygens' true quote is "The world is my country, TO PROMOTE science my religion." Sagan almost makes Huygens as a science idolater, when in fact he was a Christian. "Promoting" science wouldn't be idolatry since (as Sagan and even others constantly avoid mentioning) in Huygens' days God and religion was very much part of the sciences!

3...., Sagan frequently blames the churches of Christendom for keeping Europe in the dark ages, while never explaining why the rest of the whole wide world, not under Vatican influence, also remained so far behind. For instance, many of the Eastern countries like China, Japan, northward toward Russia and surrounding nations, along with Australia, Greenland, Iceland, Africa, North, Central and South American continents (though Inca nations has some scientific advantages among their horrid religion) weren't even as advanced as the "Darkened" Europe. Paradoxically, Sagan admires and commends Holland's advancement, totally ignoring the fact that they were among the most religious Protestants on the continent!

While it's true religion did have a share of holding back scientific progress, the majority of the scientists breaking out of the "dark ages," that promoted and advocated science, were also very religious, often among the clergy, or at least educated and trained by the churches, supported and paid by the church, studying books preserved in monastery libraries or the Vatican, many of them written by past clergymen, monks, etc. Even if/when the pope would ban certain books, putting them on the `banned list' typically increased people's curiosity thus, in many cases increased the printing, circulation and sales of `forbidden' books! For instance; Sagan cites the Pope's entering Copernicus' book on the "forbidden" list but doesn't mention Copernicus' book continued in publication and all the more since being put on the list. It was removed from this list within a few years because the Pope actually saw much good in the book. He made a decree listing what exact words/phrases are to be removed and what to replace them with (typically that the idea of `the sun being the center of the solar system, instead of the earth,' be written as a "hypothesis" instead of "fact"). Then the Pope's decree was to be printed and placed - the "correction prefixed to the Preface by Copernicus" right inside the book, thus allowing Copernicus' readers to see exactly what was originally in "De Revolutionibus" anyway!

4...., Sagan briefly mentions Platonic teachings that, indeed, started the drifting away from the Greek science of those like Pythagoras, Aristarchus and the Ionian teaching, yet says almost nothing of Aristotelian philosophy being a most influential, equally or even more of a deterrent to scientific advancement. These were the "philosophers" Sagan anonymously mentions that were most influential in Galileo's house arrest. As for Galileo, he never viewed religion, God or the Bible as holding back scientific advancement, so why should Sagan or anyone else that experiences less "hindering" than Galileo ever did?

Religion didn't really hold back advancement as much as wanting too much regulating of it, selectively banning specific scientific "facts" that were never really in conflict with the Bible anyway; as Galileo made clear. The latest scientific discoveries of that time were in conflict with Aristotelian philosophy, they were the ones that aroused controversy and twisted the Bible to support their Aristotelianism.

5...., Sagan tells of the Alexandrian Library's destruction by Christendom in 400AD. It actually survived for two hundred more years and it was at Caliph Omar's decree that hundreds of thousands of its books were destroyed, heating thousands of bathers for six months.

6...., Sagan's reasoning on this: the quote... "We must, of course, ask next where God comes from. And if we decide this to be unanswerable, WHY NOT SAVE A STEP and decide that the origin of the universe is an unanswerable question? Or, if we say that God has always existed, WHY NOT SAVE A STEP and conclude that the universe has always existed?" Sagan's thinking excels nearly any modern-day scientist. But this bit of philosophy must be among the most unscientific statements in any of his books (for certain of all the books of his I read). Simply deciding or making a conclusion to merely "save a step" isn't science at all. Science seeks out and builds steps, building higher and off of the steps of others. Sagan (or anybody) has never used this type of reasoning anywhere else as far as I know. But believing in God, then giving Him up, merely to save a step is absurd! Further, present-day science is quite conclusive that the origin of the universe isn't "an unanswerable question," rather it is answerable and has a beginning. Today's science is somewhat leaning more towards "something" always did exist and that "nothing" didn't exist, so "deciding" God always existed isn't unscientific.

By and large, most of the book is still very current and scientifically informative, and I hope that even my own kids would still read it today as anybody aught. There's more learning in this book than most any other and, I imagine, will always hold up! Thus I still cringe at the remake.

Most of the readers and reviewers of this book speak of it with wonder and excitement, pleasure and gratitude. Many call it the best popular science book ever written. A number speak of the way it changed their lives, and led them to take deeper interest in scientific enterprises.

I also upon viewing the popular series on television years ago was caught up with this kind of enthusiasm. There was a sense of learning and understanding the latest picture of the universe the best minds of mankind had been able to put together.

I remember regretting it when I missed an episode.

I believe I read the book when it first came out. A couple of reviewers have indicated that some of the science is a bit dated, superseded by developments in fields in which new discoveries are happening all the time.

Nonetheless at the very same time I was so enthusiastic about Sagan's presentation I did feel a certain reservation. It is the reservation of one or two other reviewers I have seen on this site. For Sagan the Cosmos begins with an absence of Intelligence and moves toward greater and greater Intelligence and Understanding with the development of Mankind. For many of us this picture is questionable , for we hold with the idea of a Creator not simply at the Beginning of the Process but throughhout. Sagan and I suspect many who read this will say simply ' unverifiable' and ' non-falsifiable' and therefore non- scientific.' I would counter with something like this. That there is a kind of false hope presented in the story if we make it seems as if the place we have in the Cosmos is one of ever- increasing power, knowledge, understanding. The truth is that the vast worlds opened to us by our new knowledge and scientific instruments are vast worlds largely of dust and emptiness. And that the vast stretches of time too make it seem as if our moment is one small lost one before humanity in some way ceases to exist,either through our own ' Progress'in weapon- making or through some cosmic development we simply have no control over. The picture of mastery and optimism in Sagan's Cosmos I want to say is not borne out by conclusive evidence. Seti or not, ' the silence of the infinite spaces still can cast us into dread' This is not meant to be an anti- scientific diatribe . I too share the sense of wonder and appreciation which comes with the chronicle of developing human understanding of the universe. I also though wonder if Humanity does not need , and is incomplete without the idea of a Creator to whom we owe our origin and our end.

Carl Sagan's very well done introduction to astronomy, cosmology, life and all that good stuff, as he sets out to explain to the layperson the origins of the universe, the stars, and the planets, and ultimately, us.

An uplifting publication to go alongside his tv series.

This is the first book that I've ever read by Carl, and I'd have to say that I'm hooked! I have already purchased many other books written by him such as Contact, Cosmic Connection, Pale Blue Dot, and Billions and Billions. As I was reading this book, I couldn't put it down. I actually looked forward to reading a science book! He does a marvelous job of explaining the history of the cosmos to the general public-- you don't have to be a Harvard graduate to be able to understand it. His mild amusement throughout the book keeps you hooked, and the charm he has even more so. I'd give this book a BILLION stars! I reccomend it to anyone that would like to learn more about the history of the cosmos, and its future.

In this book Sagan does a masterful job of explaining the universe. He makes a very complicated subject both understandable and interesting. I definitely recommend this book to anyone that's ever looked up into the sky and wondered what's out there or likewise pondered the question of how humanlife began.

Publisher: Wings Books
Edition: 1995 Edition
Year (Print): 1995
Name: "COSMOS"
Author: Carl Sagan
the store Seller: lookatabook

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This book contains a huge amount of (in my opinion) well presented information that is easy to digest for a broad spectrum of scientifically literate (or illiterate but curious) people. This was the first book I ever had the pleasure of looking at when I was little, and it's pictures and the subsequent questions in my brain have stuck with me to this day.

I would recommend this book for adults and children alike, more highly than any other book, for that reason alone.

One can grow with it.

Cosmos has profoundly influenced me on a real, tangible, continual, daily basis. Sagan convinced me of the precious nature of our existence. Sagan effectively explains the vastness of our solar system, our star cluster, our galaxy, the entire universe via using brilliant, easy to understand analogies. After completing the book, I felt profoundly connected to every human-being on the planet. The beauty of our existence becomes truly apparent, however the tragedy and foolishness behind conflict, crime, war, hatred, bigotry and zealotry also becomes unbearably clear.

The other five star reviews have probably said all I would want to say in a complete review. So, bluntly, I recomend this book to anyone who has any interst, any interest at all, in the Universe and the past & future of the human race in relation to this Universe.

Carl Sagan's COSMOS is simply one of the best popular science books ever written. What sets this book apart from others on the subject is Sagan's poetic style and enthusiasm for the topic. By the way, the pictures in the hard-cover version are beautiful.

In his book, Dr. Sagan takes the reader on a tour of the universe and a ride through time that belittles our existence but at the same time reveres it. But Dr. Sagan does not forget who he is writing for. One of the ideas behind the unbelievably popular companion tv show of Cosmos was that the general public is more interested in and capable of understanding science than it is given credit for. As such, Cosmos is a book anyone can pick up and enjoy, yet it remains intelligent throughout. If someone would want to find a place to begin understanding the history and life of our universe and our place in it, then this book is that place.

This book was brilliant. Sagan had a way of explaining science to young students and making it meaningful. We need more teachers like Carl in the future. It will be good for the country.
Jeffrey McAndrew
author of "Our Brown-Eyed Boy"

Cosmos first burst onto the scene in 1980, two years before this college sophomore was even born. Even now, 20 years later, it remains THE book for everybody interested in what's out there. Some of the material may be slightly out of date, yes, but this book is brilliantly written in a way that I can't even describe with words. Sagan had a passion for his work second to none, one which clearly comes out in his writing. A definite must-have, add this to your cart right now.

Cosmos was a gift for my husband, an armchair astronomer. HE LOVES IT!! His only criticism - the size of the print is VERY small. It seems as the size of the book itself was shrunk, so was the size of the print. But he appreciates Sagan's intelligence, his broad level of knowledge, the varied scope of information and even the drawings that he included as illustrations.

I will be looking to get other Sagan works for other occasions.

KGH

Seriously. I was born shortly before this was made. Good grief. I think like so many reviewers, they grew up with Sagan books and tapes, thus always in the back of my mind there was something from him around the table. Watching and reading Sagan is very peaceful and it feels like growing up again. The star stuff is cool, but there are lots of programs far better than this out there. Sagan though is Sagan. Can't think of another Astronomer I like better. That Zeth Showstack (SETI) guy is cool though.

This was one of the first books I ever read, and still one of the best. The late Sagan does a good job explaining the history of astronomy and space flight. He even defines Cosmos: it means everything that does exist, has existed, and ever will exist.

Beautiful, clear, understandable, and shimmering science. Cosmos is a must read for everyone with deep intellect and love for learning. It is by no means explained in high level terms, but Sagan doesn't need those! I felt 50 percent more wise after reading this book. I've read all his works and this is the best by far. The book is a magnificent master piece full of wonder and enchantment, more exiting than a thiller, explosivley more informative and interesting than any science book! - Mitchell Frost Age 12, high level achiever with Sagan as a role model. I AM NO ATHEIST!

If every human on Earth read this book. It might make them think about how important life is, causing violence and hate to stop. We are all equal on this planet. I now have a new outlook on life and how small we really are.

I grew up with this book and it's a kind of scientific Bible for me. A must-have for anybody interesting in science, understanding our universe or just simply enjoying the beauty of our world. I would turn the book into a textbook for our sons at school.

This is the second time I have read this book. This book was the first of its kind as it explained complex science in a way that most science minded people can understand. I must say Carl has been right on the mark with his predictions for the future.

Carl Sagan's timeless Cosmos tells the story of billions of years of cosmic history in a manner that no one else can. It is timeless. Written primarily about how science has developed in our society, the book touches on subjects such as history, philosophy, religion, cultures and so fourth. The book is written in simple terms and is understandable to those without a background in science.

A very good book, written for the layman. I read this book when i was 10 and read it again now. I did find it a little boring now that i have gone much deeper into astronomy, but nevertheless this is an excellent book. I liked the TV series as well. The late Carl Sagan along with Stephen Hawking, Asimov and Kaku is one of my favorite authors. I also recommend you read his books "Broca's Brain" and "Dragons of Eden".

I wasn't sure how a book like this would read 25 years after it was first published. I was astounded by it. It is one of the most enjoyable books I have ever read.

The depth and breadth of knowledge of the author is incredible and so beautifully put across.

Imagine that this was proscribed to all 15 year old students throughout the globe; we really could go a long way to improving our future society and well-being.

Sagan just sees things differently... a welcome escape from the everyday shallow view of the world and our often self-centered purpose in it. This book is not simply about space, stars and planets - but rather a thoughtful examination of how small we really are in comparison to a universe filled with mystery.

This book helped to strengthen my faith in the power and glory of the Almighty. It's terrifically written by the late Carl Sagan. I've never owned a book such as this that has brought me closer to God and Jesus Christ. Amen

I was 12 when I begged for the book Cosmos. I remember getting it--a big, coffee table sized book, glossy pages full of beautiful photographs and artwork that made the ideas come alive. I've remained a fan ever since, and was so excited when my daughter decided that she wanted to read the book. Thirty plus years later, my copy was a bit ragged, so I bought a new one. It was the only version available on the store, and I should have read the fine print.

The mass market paperback is printed with itty bitty print on low quality pulp paper, and contains only a few pages of artwork in the center.

Ugh. What a horrible reading experience.

If I had realized this--and again, it's my fault for not reading the dimensions more closely, I would have paid triple--QUADRUPLE--the amount just to get the book that I really wanted. I hate to do it, but I'm sending this poor miserable excuse for a book back to the store.

Some of its content is dated however over 90% of the book is still relevant. Gives a complete overview if astronomy with its history, theories and some ethical questions. None of this has changed since this masterful book

Carl Sagan is a wonderful writer in the sense that he takes very complex subjects such as einstein's theory of relativity and makes it very easiily understandable to the layman. He has such a passion for his work, that he is able to draw people into his world with his wonderful examples and descriptions. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested even in the least bit about the universe. If i could, i would rate this book a 6! It is just that good.

Esta versión cuenta con la voz de una institución en la traducción en México, el Sr. Agustín López Zavala, garantía de calidad y que nos trae de regreso a 1980. Él también fue la voz de "Aquaman" en la serie de caricaturas "Los Super-Amigos" (o la Liga de la Justicia), además de ser la voz del narrador de la serie japonesa animada "Remi", entre muchos otros trabajos destacados... Otro detalle interesante es que el capítulo 2, por motivos que desconocemos, no fue transmitido en México (alguna cuestión de contenido, seguramente), motivo por el cual no contó con la traducción correspondiente cuando se realizó el doblaje original.

Cosmos es un gran documental científico, que mereció en 1981 ganar 2 premios Emmy y 1 premio Hugo. La visión cosmogónica de Carl Sagan en este documental es increíble, por decir lo menos. Al parecer, esta versión no cuenta con las actualizaciones por capítulo realizadas años después por Carl Sagan, sin embargo, no demeritan en lo mas mínimo el documental. Lo que hubiera sido fantástico, es que esta versión contara con el famoso "Capítulo 14 - Ted Turner entrevista al Dr. Sagan"(un valor agregado de la versión VHS previa en el año 2000 (no tengo el dato exacto), que consistía en una hora de entrevista en donde se mencionaban los avances científicos que se habían hecho a la fecha de la entrevista.

Esta serie nos hace reflexionar como seres humanos, sobre el origen de la materia, aborda temas enciclopédicos en materias como Historia, Filosofía, Biología, Física, Química, Astronomía, de una trascendencia fundamental para los seres humanos. Sin duda tener esta colección, así como cualquier otro material de Carl Sagan es de un valor incalculable.

The best science book I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Sagan describes the Cosmos in such a wonderful way I actually regret never having pursued astronomy at a younger age. Cosmos should be made required reading, if not for the insight it provides about the universe, then for its ability to make one imagine limitless possibilities. From Thales math to Keplers physics to Hubbles astronomy, Sagan is coherent yet entertaining. Cosmos is excellent.

Simply incredible, this book will take you on a journey that travels back and forth through the history and the future of science. With poetic grace, it explains the cosmos in a way i would not have though possible, and revealed things, not just things but Truth! The actuality of the universe, cleverly placed within the pages of a masterpiece.

Carl Sagan died December 20th, 1996. The short paragraph at the top of the page says 1997. The least we can do is get the date of his death right.
Cosmos is wonderful, one of a great man's greatest works.

My sister recommended this book for me and let me borrow it. I can not thank her enough. Never have I read a book that more eloquently explains our universe in such a broad subject matter. Sagan poetically writes about science, making the book not only incredibly interesting, but beautiful.

Having now read both Cosmos & Pale Blue Dot I can't help thinking on the drive home how precious life is, and how amazing our cities, our countries and our planet would look from above to another civilization. Carl Sagan has left me with the lingering thought, "Could we be the first civilisation that has actually evolved into a form of intelligent life since the Big Bang, and if so, why are we so stupid?"

Like the Holy Bible, Cosmos is epic work. Cosmos takes the reader from the dawn of Human creation to the twighlight of our future. Carl Sagan is the master at tranfering his passions to the reader. Not only did I gain and appreciation of the world around me but I gained a new perspective on man's place in the Universe.

This is undoubtedly the most beautiful work of science ever written for the general public. It spans across multiple disciplines, from evolution, to genetics, to chemistry, to physics, to astronomy, and astrophysics. Whether you're a scientist or just a child interesting in the world around us, Dr. Sagan does not disappoint and conveys science with nothing less than elegance.

I've read this book couple of years ago but it was translated into Arabic & I knew nothing about Dr. Carl Sagan, but I felt like am standing in front of a giant in science & from that day I loved this book so much & I took it everywhere, I think my passion for space science & then to all sciences really began after I read this book. Indescribable book.

For me, Sagan brought EVERYTHING together in an incredible and inspirational vision in Cosmos. I think he was the ultimate bigger picture person. If I had not read this book I think I would be forever lost in the details. While I find the parts to be interesting, the WHOLE is where I find MEANING. I have found a reality based understanding of my existance and it is profound.

After reading Cosmos you'll feel like a new "informed" man. By far the best book on the subject. Everything is explained in such a way that even the layman can understand. Ever wounderd about black holes, relitvity or extraterrestrials, then this the book for you.

"...remarkable for what there is of it." -- that's what G.K. Chesterton said of George Bernard Shaw's agnostic arguments. How in the cosmos can a brilliant mind like Sagan's miss the notion of a Supreme Being behind it all. Talk about improbability of it all, and then hang it on the laws of probability. Who wrote the laws? Nonetheless, a marvelous book with "billions and billions" of reasons to read it and examine conclusions Sagan could not.

Tom

Este libro NO contiene la biografía de Carl Sagan se trata de una reimpresión del texto original de “Cosmos” sin ninguna de las fotografías o grabados originales. En ninguna de las páginas aparece la información de los derechos de autor (o copyright) lo cual hace suponer que puede tratarse de una impresión que infringe tales derechos. La tipografía, por otra parte, es pésima, no contiene números de página ni ningún tipo de encabezados, las oraciones se cortan innecesariamente, es evidente que se trata de un trabajo chapucero hecho de forma artesanal. El escritor William Poundstone, autor de la biografía de Carl Sagan (A Life in the Cosmos) NO tiene relación alguna con el contenido de esta publicación. No vale la pena pagar por la adquisición de esta versión (que en todo caso desmerece la obra del Dr. Sagan).

Carl takes you on an astounding voyage of exploration and discovery. You'd have to be completely dead to not feel the love for the universe that we all should feel after reading this book. My mind was certainly broadened greatly and my view on all around me has changed forever. This is a book that all human beings should read.

With very simple words Carl Sagan introduce you in the magic of our universe, part of the astronomy story, tells you about Mars and our solar system and gives you a complete vision about many topics.
If you have ever asked yourself how is it "up there" and how we got here, you may find some answers (and ask yourself more questions, too) in this great book.