Sidney Drell(1926–2016) left a legacy worthy of many lifetimes. Physicist, professor, national security expert, amateur musician, behind-the-scenes diplomat, and champion for peace and human rights, he was also friend and mentor. Dozens of interviews with those whose lives he touched reveal Drell as a man of brilliance, curiosity, and passions, whose devotion to the arts, family, and community equaled his love for physics. Teaching at Stanford University and working at its linear particle accelerator, Drell made significant scientific contributions. Not content to leave science in the lab or classroom, Drell brought his intellectual heft to public service, advising the US government on issues relating to science, advocating for Russian dissident Andrei Sakharov, and urging nuclear disarmament. Scaling the heights of achievement with a down-to-earth sensibility, Drell met his destiny empowered and validated by a prodigious mind, generous spirit, and tact in fostering goodwill for the benefit of all.
“While much has been written about Sid’s transcendent technical contributions to physics and arms control policy, this book goes to the essence of Sid—what made him so able to achieve these lofty heights. In it we see his humanity, his sense of humor, his delight in the puzzles of the world, and we should see a template for living our own lives. His words can still offer direction and the sparkle that was Sid.” —William J. Perry, 19th US secretary of defense
“More than a brilliant physicist, Sid was a humanitarian who worked tirelessly to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons, understanding that their use could lead to the destruction of mankind. It was an honor and a pleasure to work with him in advancing dialogue toward agreements between our countries. If only such efforts could continue.” —Boris Ioffe, Institute for Theoretical and Experimental Physics, Moscow
![Sidney D. Drell: Into the Heart of Matter, Passionately [Hardcover]](/itemImage/2/3/8/1/2_4466984.jpg "Sidney D. Drell: Into the Heart of Matter, Passionately [Hardcover]")