I recently finished American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer, by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherman. This magnificent biography covers the span of Oppenheimer’s remarkable life, from his birth into a prosperous German-Jewish immigrant family in New York and ascent in to the top echelons of theoretical physics, his experiences with leftist politics in the 1930’s, his legendary leadership of the Manhattan Project, and subsequent role after World War II as a probing critic of atomic proliferation which would ultimately lead to his humiliation during the Red Scare of the 1950’s.

As a technologist, the book is easily the most inspiring thing I’ve read in years. If software developers think that their blend of improvisation, genius, and personality came about in the late 1970s, the stories of physicists in Europe (Germany/England/Netherlands) and the USA (Harvard/Berkeley/Princeton) will open their eyes to the freewheeling climate of imagination and innovation that domincated theoretical physics in the first half of the 20th century. It was a time when science, and thus scientists, were revered by the public at large as great intellectual patriots and leaders. Of course this time couldn’t last; it never does. But at its peak it produced atomic energy and weaponry - the most significant technology evolution in hundreds of years.

Being somewhat of a polymath I closely identified with Oppenheimer’s lifelong passion for literature, politics, and fine art. Throughout his life Oppenheimer’s colleagues never seemed to know whether physics or poetry were his true passion.

Oppenheimer’s political dismemberment is also closely examined; with his rise to prominence came continual growing suspicion from the right-wing and military establishments that this most charismatic of scientists could have too strong an influence on American nuclear policy. It’s a great cautionary tale that highlights the political cost exacted for the strident usage of one’s intellect and charisma for purposes of pacifism and public service.

I’ll be posting some quotes from Oppenheimer over the next week, with some thoughts and observations on them. Post with your thoughts and comments - would love to hear the thoughts of others on the book and the man.