This book is based on an in-depth filmed conversation between Howard Burton and Artur Ekert, Professor of Quantum Physics at the Mathematical Institute at the University of Oxford and Director of the Centre for Quantum Technologies and Lee Kong Chian Centennial Professor at the National University of Singapore. Artur Ekert is one of the pioneers of quantum cryptography. This wide-ranging conversation provides detailed insights into his groundbreaking research and covers many fascinating topics such as mathematical and physical intuition, a detailed history of cryptography from antiquity to the present day and how it works in practice, the development of quantum information science, the nature of reality, and more. This carefully-edited book includes an introduction, Putting the Pieces Together, and questions for discussion at the end of each chapter: I. Beginnings - Mathematics, physics and intuition II. Cryptographic Essentials - From the ancient Greeks to the Cold War III. Public Key Cryptosystems - Harnessing the difficulty factor IV. Harnessing Interference - The power of quantum computers V. Quantum Sociology - What is quantum information science, anyway? VI. Quantum Metaphysics - And its concrete effects VII. The Joy of Questioning - And the merits of being rebellious About Ideas Roadshow Conversations: This book is part of an expanding series of 100+ Ideas Roadshow conversations, each one presenting a wealth of candid insights from a leading expert through a focused yet informal setting to give non-specialists a uniquely accessible window into frontline research and scholarship that wouldn't otherwise be encountered through standard lectures and textbooks.

Includes separately paged "Junior union section."