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Masks of the Universe

Masks of the Universe

$19.99 USD
$19.99 USD
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Condition: Very Good

Condition Notes: Cover shows little shelf wear. Binding is tight. Pages are clean and intact

Author(s): Edward R. Harrison

Print: 1st Print

Publication year: 1985

Binding: Hardcover

Language: English

Publisher: Macmillan

ISBN:

This intellectual survey explores the historical evolution of how humanity conceptualizes the cosmos, analyzing how different civilizations have systematically designed "masks"—or models—to make sense of the infinite universe. Written by a prominent astrophysicist, the text argues that every historical worldview, from the magical and mythic perspectives of ancient cultures to the mechanistic and geometric systems of Newton and Einstein, is a culturally conditioned construct that reflects the limits of contemporary human thought. Rather than presenting a triumphant timeline of scientific progress, the narrative treats modern quantum physics and relativity not as final, ultimate truths, but simply as our current, highly sophisticated masks. The volume functions as an objective, cross-disciplinary reference tool that balances rigorous cosmology with deep epistemology, challenging readers to consider what remains of reality when all conceptual frameworks are stripped away.

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Book Condition Scale

  • Like New

    This book is in excellent condition and appears to have been read only once. The pages are clean and unmarked, with no creases or stains. The binding remains firm and tight. There may be minimal signs of shelf wear on the cover or dust jacket, but overall, the book looks and feels nearly new.

  • Very Good

    This book has been read but remains in great condition. It does not look new, yet there is no obvious damage to the cover. Wear and tear are minimal. The pages are clean, free of highlighting or notes, though it may contain identifying marks from a previous owner or bookstore.

  • Good

    This book shows moderate to heavy signs of wear that can include creases, stains or tears. The cover may have minimal damage, and the binding remains intact with slight wear. The majority of pages are undamaged, though there may be some highlighting, underlining, or notes. It may also contain identifying marks from a previous owner or bookstore.

  • Acceptable

    This book shows significant wear, which may include tears, large stains, creases, loose pages, and heavy notes, underlining, or highlighting. The binding may be loose but remains intact. While it has noticeable imperfections, it is still a complete and readable copy. Any major defects will be clearly noted in the listing.

  • As Is

    This book is visibly worn and may be heavily soiled, scuffed, stained, or spotted. It may have loose joints, hinges, or pages, and some text or pages may be missing. Large tears and other significant defects may be present. While still a readable copy, it shows substantial signs of use. Any major flaws will be clearly noted in the listing.

  • Dust Jacket Grading

    (A) Excellent
    The dust jacket is in excellent condition, may show the slightest signs of shelf wear, if any.

    (B) Good
    Shows minor shelf wear, usually along edges and may have a few light stains.

    (C) Fair
    Displays moderate shelf wear, including some noticeable small tears, creasing and/or stains.

    (D) Poor
    Contains large tears, several creases, and/or heavy staining.

    (F) As Is
    Shows significant wear and tear. Majority of dust jacket is torn or missing. May contain heavy staining.