Book Cosm

Cosmo

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A physicist accidentally creates a new universe during a particle accelerator experiment, leading to a profound exploration of scientific responsibility and the ethical dilemmas of controlling an evolving cosmos.

Cosm is a serious, thought-provoking novel that explores the profound scientific and philosophical implications of creating a new universe. With high stakes and irreversible consequences, the story challenges the reader to think deeply about the ethics of scientific discovery and the responsibilities that come with it. This is a book for those who appreciate hard science fiction with a strong focus on speculative philosophy and the moral complexities of manipulating reality.


Cosm by Gregory Benford follows physicist Alicia Butterworth, who, during a particle accelerator experiment, inadvertently creates a miniature universe—a "cosm." As Alicia explores this pocket dimension, she grapples with both the scientific implications and the personal dilemmas of controlling an entire universe. The cosm behaves according to its own physical laws, evolving rapidly in ways that mimic the Big Bang and cosmic development. Alicia faces pressure from the scientific community, the government, and various interest groups, all of whom want to control or exploit the discovery. As she delves deeper into understanding the cosm, Alicia is forced to confront her own beliefs about reality, ethics, and the responsibility that comes with holding immense power. The novel blends elements of hard science fiction with metaphysical themes, highlighting the ethical dilemmas of playing God and questioning the boundaries of scientific exploration. Cosm contributes to the genre by grounding its exploration of alternate realities in real scientific principles, providing a thoughtful commentary on discovery and control.
 
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I remember reading this when I was 12 or 13, and that I read it three times in a row. Up until then most of the stuff in this realm I had access to were Michael Crichton thrillers. I think this was the first hard science fiction book that actually got me hooked on this genre.

This one was grounded in real science but it didn’t lose the sense of wonder that defines great science fiction. Benford’s explanations of physics made the discoveries feel tangible and the science itself became a character of sorts. Gotta find a new copy, highly recommended.
 
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