A very decent biography
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Probably because he was a more boring person than ill tempered Newton and pacifist Einstein few people know James Clerk Maxwell, but still he completes the threesome of greatest scientists ever for his theory that unified electricity and magnetism into one series of laws, for his contributions to thermodynamics and a host of other things.
No juicy fights then, nor political confrontations, which should not discredit this book. It's just that its subject, however important, is not the most exciting man ever to roam the realm of science. This book matches Maxwell in decency and thoughtfulness.
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Great book and even better subject
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This is an excellent book, well-written, interesting and comprehensive. For many years I have wondered why Maxwell is not ranked along with Einstein and Newton and this book reinforced that opinion. I find historical biographies like this by far the best way to get a good understanding of where we are now and why - much better than the patronising popular science books attempting to convert maths into English. When you see, as this book shows you, the reasons why people like Maxwell were motivated, you can really begin to relate to significance of their work without needing to fully understand the detailed science behind it. Highly recommended.
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A Great Soul
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This is a fine book. In just 185 pages Basil Mahon portrays both the qualities of the man and the scale of his achievements. The writing is of a high standard and the great range of science is presented succinctly and with great clarity.
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For anyone who has ever asked: who was James Clerk Maxwell?
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This is a beautifully written biography of this relatively unknown but truly great man. This book sets Maxwell's wonderful achievements within the context of a life well led. His modesty, affection, poetic humour and search for fundamental truths all shine through. It is very accessible, and well worth reading.
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