In his debut book, The Art of Physics: Eight elegant ideas to make sense of almost everything, Zahaan Bharmal (1996, Physics) delves into how foundational principles of physics can illuminate many aspects of human life. Zahaan argues that physics is far from an abstract science—it is a practical lens through which we can answer some of life’s most compelling questions.
In The Art of Physics, Zahaan seeks to address topics that resonate universally: Why are some relationships unstable while others endure? Why does inequality persist across societies? Why do people consistently make irrational choices? With chapters like ‘The Physics of Getting Fired’, ‘The Physics of Breaking Up’, and ‘The Physics of a Midlife Crisis’, the book demonstrates how physics can provide insights into challenges ranging from personal relationships and career upheavals to major global events like Brexit and the turbulence of recent U.S. elections.
Drawing on a rich array of physics concepts, including quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, chaos and complexity theory, and materials science, The Art of Physics reveals surprising and often beautiful connections between physical laws and the unpredictability of everyday life. Zahaan’s approach invites readers to embrace paradoxes and uncertainties—core tenets of physics—as tools for understanding ourselves and our world.
The book received a warm reception ahead of its launch. Alain de Botton described it as “exceptionally interesting,” while Thomas Erikson, author of Surrounded by Idiots, called it “a book that will transform how you understand human behaviour.”
To celebrate the launch of his book, Zahaan hosted a hugely enjoyable event at LMH on 12th November. Joined by his former tutor and LMH Physics Fellow, Professor Todd Huffman, he discussed key themes from the book and his commitment to making physics accessible to all readers, regardless of any prior scientific knowledge.
Zahaan Bharmal (right) and Prof Todd Huffman (left) spoke about themes from Zahaan's book at the launch event.
