Nova's PicksElon Musk's List: A First Principles Library
Sourced from Elon Musk's endorsements. This is not a reading list; it's a blueprint for thinking from first principles, building the impossible, and securing the future.
1. The Sci-Fi Operating System
These are the foundational epics that provide the inspiration and the philosophical framework for building a multi-planetary future.
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
An existential philosophy book, disguised as humor, that argues the real problem is not finding the answer, but formulating the right question.
The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress
Heinlein's best book. A classic of revolutionary politics and realistic engineering, detailing a lunar colony's fight for independence.
Dune
A brilliant series that explores the complex interplay of technology, ecology, and human power, while advocating for limits on machine intelligence.
2. The Builder's Code
These are the practical guides and cautionary tales for the engineers, entrepreneurs, and leaders who build new worlds.
3. Understanding the Human Variable
To change the future, you must understand the past. These texts reveal the grand, violent, and complex patterns of human history.
Homer's The Iliad and The Odyssey
The "maximum alpha" epic, best experienced as an audiobook. A foundational story of conflict, honor, and fighting for what matters.
Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World
A fascinating look at a relentless leader who built a massive empire and forever changed the map of the world.
4. Systems, Economics & Philosophy
These books provide the mental models for understanding the large-scale social and economic systems that shape our world.
The Wealth of Nations
The foundational text of modern capitalism, and the clear winner in any debate against Marx.
Das Kapital
The counter-argument to Adam Smith, and, ironically, a book about capitalism written by a capitalist.
The Road to Serfdom
The classic economic argument against central planning and in favor of individual economic freedom.