This book offers an informal easy-to-understand account of topics in modern physics and
mathematics. The focus is in particular on statistical mechanics soft matter probability
chaos complexity and models as well as their interplay. The book features 28 key entries and
it is carefully structured so as to allow readers to pursue different paths that reflect their
interests and priorities thereby avoiding an excessively systematic presentation that might
stifle interest. While the majority of the entries concern specific topics and arguments some
relate to important protagonists of science highlighting and explaining their contributions.
Advanced mathematics is avoided and formulas are introduced in only a few cases. The book is a
user-friendly tool that nevertheless avoids scientific compromise. It is of interest to all who
seek a better grasp of the world that surrounds us and of the ideas that have changed our
perceptions.
