Technology & Science
The Heads of Cerberus and Other Stories
Francis Stevens
Step into a world where the boundaries of time and reality blur. In 'The Heads of Cerberus,' Robert Drayton is thrust into a dystopian Philadelphia of the 22nd century, a society ruled by the enigmatic 'Penn Service' and its 'Superlatives,' where citizens are mere numbers and freedom is a distant memory. As he and his companions unravel the dark secrets of this oppressive future, they must confront the terrifying power of the Red Bell and find a way back to their own time, or risk being trapped forever. This collection also features 'The Curious Experience of Thomas Dunbar,' an earlier tale exploring the unforeseen consequences of scientific discovery. A foundational work of the 'Radium Age' of science fiction, this book offers a thrilling blend of speculative adventure, social commentary, and imaginative wonder.
Tech Agnostic
Greg M. Epstein
In 'Tech Agnostic,' Greg M. Epstein provocatively argues that technology has evolved beyond a mere industry to become the dominant religion of our time, shaping our beliefs, practices, and values with an almost divine influence. Drawing parallels between the narratives of tech giants and ancient religious doctrines, Epstein explores how technology offers promises of salvation, community, and even immortality, while also presenting its own forms of hierarchy, ritual, and apocalypse. This book is a compelling call for a 'reformation' of our relationship with technology, urging readers to critically examine its pervasive power and redirect its astonishing capabilities towards more humane and ethical ends.
Handprints on Hubble
Kathryn D. Sullivan
In this captivating memoir, Kathryn D. Sullivan, the first American woman to walk in space, shares her firsthand account of the groundbreaking work behind the Hubble Space Telescope. From her early days as a 'Sputnik Baby' and her journey to becoming an astronaut, Sullivan chronicles the challenges and triumphs of launching, rescuing, repairing, and maintaining Hubble. She reveals the untold story of the engineers and astronauts who invented the tools and processes that made on-orbit maintenance possible, transforming Hubble into the most productive observatory ever built and revolutionizing our understanding of the universe.
An Introduction to System Safety Engineering
Nancy G. Leveson
This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of system safety engineering. It delves into the methodologies for designing, analyzing, and managing complex systems to prevent accidents and ensure safety, covering topics from hazard identification to risk mitigation strategies. Essential reading for anyone involved in the development and operation of critical systems.
Careless People
Sarah Wynn-Williams
Sarah Wynn-Williams, an idealistic diplomat, joined Facebook believing it could change the world for good. Her seven-year journey inside the tech giant, advising Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg on international policy, quickly revealed a complex reality. From navigating shark attacks and diplomatic blunders to confronting ethical dilemmas and the company's relentless pursuit of growth, Wynn-Williams offers an unvarnished, insider account of Facebook's rise, its profound global impact, and the personal cost of working at the heart of a powerful, often careless, empire. This memoir is a cautionary tale of power, greed, and lost ideals at the intersection of technology and geopolitics.
Co-Intelligence
Ethan Mollick
Explore the transformative potential of AI and how it's reshaping our world. From AI as a co-worker to a tutor, discover how to navigate this new era of co-intelligence and its implications for the future of work, education, and humanity.
Chip War
Chris Miller
A gripping exploration of the high-stakes battle for semiconductor supremacy between the United States and China, revealing how chips have shaped geopolitics, the global economy, and the balance of military power. From the Cold War origins of Silicon Valley to the cutting-edge foundries of Taiwan, discover the intricate supply chains and strategic decisions that have made semiconductors the world's most critical technology.
Handbook of Collective Intelligence
Thomas W. Malone
Explore the burgeoning interdisciplinary field of collective intelligence with this comprehensive handbook. Edited by leading experts, this volume synthesizes insights from diverse disciplines—including economics, biology, human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence, cognitive psychology, and social sciences—to illuminate how groups of individuals, both human and computer, can act collectively in intelligent ways. From the 'wisdom of crowds' in financial markets to the collaborative power of Wikipedia, the book delves into the theoretical foundations, historical context, and practical applications, offering a roadmap for understanding and designing more intelligent systems in an increasingly interconnected world.