Is there a comprehensive textbook on exotic technology, physics, or engineering?
I’m not sure if a thorough textbook exists that delves into exotic physics or technology, complete with equations and chapter-end exercises, as opposed to a general popular science book. Perhaps this is due to concerns that a series like Introduction to Exotic Propulsion, Basics of Electrogravitic Propulsion, or Advanced Applications in Electrogravitic Propulsion could provide someone with the knowledge needed to develop an interdimensional, gravity-cancelling time machine or some sort of advanced zero-point energy weapon. While the idea of such a resource is intriguing, I’m skeptical anything like that has been published. That said, I’m curious—who or what has come the closest to producing something like this?
It’s an intriguing thought! While it’s true that the notion of “exotic technology” is mostly found in speculative fiction and popular science rather than rigorous academic textbooks, there are some resources that get close to what you’re describing.
For instance, books like Spacetime and Geometry by Sean Carroll and Quantum Field Theory by Franz Mandl and Graham Shaw provide in-depth explanations of advanced concepts in physics, including some that border on the exotic. While they may not explicitly cover topics like electrogravitic propulsion or interdimensional travel, they delve into the foundational principles that would be necessary to even begin understanding such advanced ideas.
In terms of engineering applications, Introduction to Quantum Mechanics by David J. Griffiths introduces fundamental quantum principles that could theoretically lay the groundwork for futuristic technologies. However, the bridge between cutting-edge theoretical physics and practical engineering for exotic technologies remains largely undocumented and speculative.
For serious readers interested in this realm, seeking out niche academic papers, online courses, or advanced research seminars in physics and engineering could also provide insights. While full-fledged textbooks on these specific “exotic” topics may not exist yet, as the field of advanced physics progresses, who knows what future authors might explore?