Kristine Larsen Livres

From novels and short stories to television and film, popular media has made a cottage industry of predicting the end of the world will be caused by particle accelerators. Rather than allay such fears, public pronouncements by particle scientists themselves often unwittingly fan the flames of hysteria. This book surveys media depictions of particle accelerator physics and the perceived dangers these experiments pose. In addition, it describes the role of scientists in propagating such fears and misconceptions, offering as a conclusion ways in which the scientific community could successfully allay such misplaced fears through more effective communication strategies. The book is aimed at the general reader interested in separating fact from fiction in the field of high-energy physics, at science educators and communicators, and, last but not least, at all scientists concerned about these issues. About the Author Kristine M Larsen holds a Ph. D. in Physics and is currently a professor at Central Connecticut State University, New Britain, CT, in the Geological Sciences Department. She has published a number of books, among them The Women Who Popularized Geology in the 19th Century (Springer, 2017), The Mythological Dimensions of Neil Gaiman (eds. Anthony Burdge, Jessica Burke, and Kristine Larsen. Kitsune Press, 2012. Recipient of the Gold Medal for Science Fiction/Fantasy in the 2012 Florida Publishing Association Awards), The Mythological Dimensions of Doctor Who (eds. Anthony Burdge, Jessica Burke, and Kristine Larsen. Kitsune Press, 2010), as well as Stephen Hawking: A Biography (Greenwood Press, 2005) and Cosmology 101 (Greenwood Press, (2007)

Focusing on the essential concepts of evolution, this accessible volume aims to equip readers with a foundational understanding of science in the modern world. It presents ideas in a progressive manner, allowing complex topics to build on simpler ones. The content is broken down into manageable segments, minimizing jargon and mathematics to ensure clarity for both students and general readers. This approach makes it suitable for anyone interested in grasping the fundamental principles of cosmology and evolution.

Focusing on Stephen Hawking's scientific legacy, this biography by physicist Kristine Larsen offers an insightful look into his life and groundbreaking contributions to cosmology. It explores his early academic struggles, the profound impact of ALS on his career, and his revolutionary theories on black holes and the universe's origins. Written for a general audience, Larsen presents complex scientific ideas in an accessible manner while providing a balanced portrayal of Hawking as both a brilliant scientist and a cultural icon, addressing his personal challenges with empathy.

The Witcher series, created by Andrzej Sapkowski, intertwines fantasy and reality, reflecting real-world advancements in science and technology through its magical elements. Geralt of Rivia, initially conceived for a writing contest, becomes a lens through which readers explore the evolution of sorcery as a parallel to modern scientific developments. This unique blend allows the series to resonate with contemporary themes while maintaining its fantastical roots over the decades.

Focusing on the contributions of female science writers, this monograph explores how these women synthesized scientific knowledge while educating and entertaining their audiences, often through personal experiences. In the 19th century, they played a pivotal role in popularizing science, particularly through the "familiar format," where scientific concepts were conveyed in conversational narratives. Although biological sciences were deemed more suitable for women, the limited geological discussions highlight the importance of analyzing these unique contributions to understand their impact on science communication.