Knowing What We Know

From the award-winning writer Simon Winchester comes Knowing What We Know, a brilliantly researched and all-encompassing exploration of human knowledge. This compelling narrative takes readers on a captivating journey from the creation of the first encyclopaedia to the pervasive world of Wikipedia, examining how we have acquired, retained, and disseminated knowledge throughout history. Winchester delves into the evolution of information sharing, contrasting ancient methods with modern technological advancements.

Central to Knowing What We Know is the profound question of what becomes of human intellect in an age where information is instantly accessible. With a smartphone at our fingertips, ready to provide answers at the touch of a button, what is left for our brains to do? Winchester poses a critical inquiry: As we increasingly rely on technology to store and process information, do we risk diminishing our capacity for original thought and wisdom? The book challenges readers to consider if we are sacrificing our ability to think deeply and critically in exchange for convenience.

Winchester's exploration is vast and insightful. He examines various disciplines such as education, journalism, encyclopaedia creation, museum curation, photography, and broadcasting, shedding light on how knowledge has been shared through the ages. From the ancient cuneiform writings of Babylon to the machine-generated intelligence of modern artificial intelligence, the book traverses an array of knowledge dissemination methods. Notable highlights include the invention of the Gutenberg press, the vast database of Google, and the encyclopaedic marvel of Wikipedia, as well as the fascinating yet lesser-known Victorian assemblage, the Mundaneum, stored in a damp basement in Belgium.

Studded with strange and fascinating details, Knowing What We Know is much more than a mere recount of historical facts; it is a deep dive into the essence of learning and the human mind. Winchester compels readers to reflect on the implications of our current trajectory. What is the value of knowledge devoid of wisdom? Does René Descartes' timeless assertion, "Cogito, ergo sum" ("I think, therefore I am"), still hold in today's digitally driven world?

Throughout this thought-provoking tour, Winchester’s erudite and sprightly prose brings the subject matter to life, igniting an ongoing dialogue about the future of human cognition. As he explores the potential consequences of a world dominated by data void of reflection, readers are left to ponder the ultimate question: What will the world be like if no one in it is wise?

Critical acclaim highlights the book's appeal and impact. The New York Times praises it as "a delightful compendium of the kind of facts you immediately want to share with anyone you encounter," while the Sunday Times lauds it for its "ebullient, irrepressible spirit" and describes it as both "erudite and sprightly."

Knowing What We Know is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of human knowledge and what it means for our future.