Stephen Hawking, renowned physicist and cosmologist, dies
Stephen William Hawking, a prominent British theoretical physicist and cosmologist, author of a number of best-selling books and theoretical treatises, who was also a well-known figure among the general public, has died at the age of 76.
"It is with profound sadness that we announce that our beloved father passed away today," said a statement released by Mr. Hawking's family on March 13.
Another part of the statement reads, "He was a great researcher and a wonderful man whose work and legacy will live on for years to come."
Recalling Mr. Hawking's famous temperament, the British cosmologist's family wrote, "His courage and resilience, along with his wit and sarcasm, inspired many people around the world."
Many media outlets and news agencies that have reported the death of Stephen Hawking have noted that he was probably, if not the most famous, then at least one of the most famous scientists and researchers of our time.
He is known not only for his theories, books, and research, but also for his popularity in popular culture, from famous films and series, and even animations, to his humorous language; despite the serious illness and "sleep paralysis" that he suffered from for years.
Hawking was born in January 1942.
Not only did he hold a senior chair at Cambridge University, he was also an honorary fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and a recipient of the US Medal of Freedom - the highest civilian award given by the US government.
In 2002, the BBC named him the 25th "Greatest Briton" in the history of the country, based on a poll of the public.
Other awards that Stephen Hawking received during his lifetime include the "Pioneer of Science Award in Fundamental Physics", the "Royal Society of Arts Medal", the "Princess of Asturias Award" from Spain, and the Albert Einstein Award in Theoretical Physics.
Among the books he wrote, some are considered the most famous popular science books that are read by ordinary people without deep theoretical knowledge. His book "A History of Time: From the Big Bang to Black Holes" is one of the popular science works that has sold more than 10 million copies and has been reprinted and translated into different languages over the past 20 years.
His other book, The Grand Design, co-written with American scientist Leonard Mlodinow, became the second best-seller on Amazon in the UK on its release day and shortly after topped the New York Times nonfiction bestseller list.
Despite the sarcasm and humor that made Hawking a popular figure, in his final months he was less optimistic about the future of humanity. "Our greed and stupidity have not diminished," Hawking told Larry King last year.
The British cosmologist did not hide his concerns about the use of artificial intelligence in weapons production, air pollution, and the unbridled trend of population growth.
In November 2016, during a speech at Oxford University, he said, "Remember to keep your head up and look at the stars, not down at your feet."
Source: Radio Farda
