Technology & Science
Not the End of the World
Hannah Ritchie
A data-driven and optimistic look at the world's environmental problems, arguing that we are not doomed and that a sustainable future is within reach. It challenges doomsday narratives and offers a path forward by examining key environmental crises and potential solutions.
Novacene
James Lovelock
In 'Novacene,' James Lovelock, the visionary behind the Gaia hypothesis, unveils his latest thought-provoking theory about the next geological epoch. He argues that we are on the cusp of the Novacene, an era where technology surpasses human control, giving rise to hyperintelligence. This book explores how humans and machines might collaborate to sustain Gaia, the living Earth, and what this means for the cosmos's self-awareness.
Numbers Rule Your World
Kaiser Fung
Explore the hidden influence of probability and statistics on your everyday life. Discover how numbers shape our world, from traffic flow to theme park queues, and learn how to make better decisions using statistical thinking. Uncover the secrets behind applied science and see how experts use numbers to improve our lives.
On Being
Peter Atkins
A profound exploration into the great questions of existence through the lens of science. Peter Atkins delves into the mysteries of the universe, from its inception to its potential end, examining the scientific method's ability to illuminate concepts that have inspired myth and wonder for millennia.
On Food and Cooking
Harold McGee
A revised and updated edition of the classic exploration of the science and lore of the kitchen. This book delves into the biological and chemical aspects of food, offering insights into ingredients, cooking methods, and flavor development. A must-read for anyone passionate about understanding the science behind delicious meals.
On Intelligence
Jeff Hawkins
A groundbreaking exploration into the nature of human intelligence and how it differs from artificial intelligence. Jeff Hawkins, inventor of the PalmPilot, presents a revolutionary theory of how the brain works, offering insights into perception, creativity, and consciousness, and paving the way for building truly intelligent machines.
On the Fringe
Michael D. Gordin
Explore the complex and often blurred boundaries between science and pseudoscience. This book delves into historical debates and controversies, offering a fresh perspective on how we define and distinguish reliable knowledge from fringe theories, from creationism and UFOlogy to Nazi eugenics and cold fusion.
Origin Story
David Christian
A sweeping narrative that connects the history of the universe with the history of humanity. From the Big Bang to the present day, explore the major thresholds of increasing complexity and discover our place in the grand story of everything.