Infinite Potential: The Life and Times of David Bohm

I don't usually give 5 stars. This biography of David Bohm, I believe, is of paramount importance. For the scientist, it demonstrates the profound limitation of the scientific pursuit in perhaps the best field to recognize said limitation: physics. David Bohm is one of the few prominent physicists of his time to recognize that inherent limitations in human observation lead us full circle back to philosophy, that is, if one is willing to be intellectually honest. And as a philosopher, Bohm was willing to dialog with many types in pursuit of an ever-improved approximation of the truth. I was so proud of Bohm when I learned that he was willing to revisit his view of Marxism when he realized (after some initial hesitation) that the outcome of following a toxic philosopher led to crimes against humanity. And Bohm was subsequently willing to read Hegel himself to better understand the dialectic process, something Karl Marx clearly failed to do. As a natural conclusion that the observer is necessarily engaged with the observed in a universe that very reasonably has a wholeness about it, Bohm came to recognize through deep contemplation and dialog--most notably with Jiddu Krisnamurti but also with several other notable people--that thought itself is the origin of all societal problems. The notion--and really ultimately the fallacy--of the self, a special product of thought, is specifically why thought breeds this trouble. Another important--and painful--element of Bohm's story is his background as a Jew. He came from a family background that suffered terrible loss in the holocaust, and Bohm himself had to defend himself against antisemitism growing up in Pennsylvania. Collectively, along with likely genetic inheritance from his mother, the trauma from his early life came back to torment him via depression, worsening as he got older. Finally, a bit about the work and writing about the author, David Peat. He did a marvelous job of resourcing and citing those recourses in writing the book. It took a little getting used to his style of weaving in and out of various topics in each chapter, but it is worth it, as I can't myself (as a writer myself) clearly think of a better approach to cover such a diversity of material, as is necessary to cover such a broad and deep thinker as David Bohm. The quantum physics alone requires a lot of side explanations for the layman. Finally, as any author does, Peat, I believe, carefully and sparingly injects his own philosophy in this book. But as he makes quite clear and explicit, David Peat has tremendous respect and even affection for David Bohm. So, if you recognize that you need a break from the shallow and destructive thinking of the modern era, read this book from cover to cover, and don't skip a single paragraph. The content is exceedingly important right to the end--especially at the end.

Bohm was not just a great physicist, whose Bohmian Mechanics provides the best alternative to the Copenhagen Interpretation of quantum mechanics. He had a remarkable life in many ways. As a graduate student of Oppenheimer at Berkeley, he worked on the Manhattan Project, but was denied security clearance because of his Marxist views, and was forbidden to read his own papers or to write his Ph. D. thesis. Later he was hounded out of the country by the HUAC. He went from a Marxist materialist to a spiritual outlook which led him to collaborate with Krishnamurti. Peat was a longtime friend and collaborator, and the biography is a great and informative read.

A most readable, honest and objective account of D. Bohm's life and times.

I've always been curious about physics and the people who practice it. David Bohm was a key player within the physics community. His mother was or became insane but was able to be around for her two sons, in an unproductive way. There were no anti-depressants and her condition worsened. Bohm was more deeply effected by his mother than he allowed himself to know. He knew many other physicists, such as Oppenheimer. Partly due to his relationship with him, but also the Communist scare after W.W.II, the U.S. Government would not allow Bohm to work in the U.S., so "Bohm went to South America. If you like to read about the theories behind psychics, this is a book for you. It also goes into Bohm's long, and eventually troubled, relationship with Krishamurti, an Indian sage. Their talks can be seen on UTube. I recommend reading this book about a brilliant, flawed, man. and viewing those talks;, which delve into the nature of mysticism.

I love this book! Starting on page 169 we read about hidden variables. Example, two particles are separated but they don't interact in the classical physics way. There are hidden variables. The same thing happens when I use my computer flight simulator! I see two planes moving on the taxiway. One of them is stopping by an intersection, while the other one keeps on going thru the intersection. The computer is controlling the aircrafts--hidden variables? There is much debate, and none of it is easy to understand. Quantum mechanics is filled with confusion because the old way physics is predictable, but quantum is like rolling the dice. The facts indicate that our universe may be computer controlled. Bohm, Bell, and the others had no knowledge of our current computers and the advanced video cards. There is no doubt that we will be capable of building computers that can simulate a universe in the distant future.

An objective, thorough outline of the life and thought of one of our greatest thinkers. Very accessible for average but interested minds like mine.

Excellent biography -- well written & considers all vital aspects of the life of this great man. Although the author tries to emphasize Bohm's spiritual awareness he falls short in presenting this aspect of Bohm's visionary personality. Highly recommended.

I bought this as a gift for my brother and read a bit of it myself too since David Bohm grew up in our hometown and went to our high school

This is a thoroughly researched and detailed account of a life which by any account was as troubled as it was driven by a passion for learning and insight. Despite his brilliance, David Bohm was as flawed as any of us. Problems seemed to arise for him because the very drive and obstinacy which allowed him to develop such brilliant insights in his work, proved a hindrance when applied to the business of life and relationships. I came to the book because of my interest in dialogue. I knew from his book on the topic that Bohm developed an approach to dialogue in later life, I now know much more about how his ideas developed and were applied. Written by someone who understood and admired Bohm's work, the technical aspects of physics though well explained were still a little obscure for me. I still couldn't put the book down and it brought the man and his work to life for me.

Passionnant quand on s'intéresse et à la physique et à la spiritualité. Il n'est pas nécessaire d'être une scientifique pour suivre le cheminement de David Bohm

Peat is a fantastic author. (1) he has a deep insight into Bohm's life and work (2) he has an elegant and explicit way in describing physics theories Plus, Bohm is an amazing human. Deep appreciation for Peat, for giving such a beautiful and detailed account of Bohm's life story. Truly inspiring for us to live a genuine life.

I recently read Infinite Potential, and it is an illuminating biography that blends the life story of David Bohm with the development of his groundbreaking ideas in physics and philosophy. Why I Love It • Comprehensive biography: Provides a detailed account of Bohm’s personal life, professional journey, and intellectual evolution. • Insightful into quantum theory: Explains Bohm’s contributions to physics and his unique ontological interpretations in a way that is both engaging and understandable. • Interdisciplinary approach: Explores the intersection of science, philosophy, and spirituality, showing how Bohm’s thinking extended beyond conventional physics. • Well-written: F. David Peat presents complex ideas clearly, making the biography accessible to both scientists and general readers interested in Bohm’s life. Practical Use Ideal for readers interested in quantum theory, philosophy of science, or biographies of influential thinkers. Verdict A fascinating and insightful biography that captures the life, mind, and legacy of David Bohm. Highly recommended for anyone curious about the interplay between science and thought. ★★★★★

Excellent Book