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On the Future
Prospects for Humanity
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Format: Hardback
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Description
A provocative and inspiring look at the future of humanity and science from world-renowned scientist and bestselling author Martin Rees
Humanity has reached a critical moment. Our world is unsettled and rapidly changing, and we face existential risks over the next century. Various outcomes—good and bad—are possible. Yet our approach to the future is characterised by short-term thinking, polarising debates, alarmist rhetoric, and pessimism.
In this short, exhilarating book, renowned scientist and bestselling author Martin Rees argues that humanity's prospects depend on our taking a very different approach to planning for tomorrow. The future of humanity is bound to the future of science and hinges on how successfully we harness technological advances to address our challenges. If we are to use science to solve our problems while avoiding its dystopian risks, we must think rationally, globally, collectively, and optimistically about the long term.
Advances in biotechnology, cybertechnology, robotics, and artificial intelligence—if pursued and applied wisely—could empower us to boost the developing and developed world and overcome the threats humanity faces on Earth, from climate change to nuclear war. At the same time, further advances in space science will allow humans to explore the solar system and beyond with robots and AI. But there is no 'Plan B' for Earth—no viable alternative within reach if we do not care for our home planet.
Rich with fascinating insights into cutting-edge science and technology, this accessible book will captivate anyone who wants to understand the critical issues that will define the future of humanity on Earth and beyond.
'When politics seems impossible, it is sometimes good to take the long view. Astronomer Martin Rees's On the Future offers a cosmological perspective on the present state of the world. Brexit seems a bit less all-or-nothing when set against the prospect of post-human space travel.' – David Runciman, The Guardian
'A condensed masterpiece of analysis and observation.' – Jonathan Power, New York Journal of Books
'The importance of science in society has no greater spokesperson than Lord Martin Rees.' – The Economist
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
In On the Future by Lord Martin Rees, critics appreciate its insightful and accessible exploration of humanity's prospects in the face of technological and existential challenges. The book is celebrated for its rational approach, balancing concerns with optimism while encouraging global, long-term thinking. The writing is praised for being clear and engaging, offering a cosmological perspective that is both informative and inspiring.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780691180441
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Format: Hardback
Date Published: 16 October 2018
Country: United States
Imprint: Princeton University Press
Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly
DIMENSIONS
Width: 127.0mm
Height: 178.0mm
Weight: 250g
Pages: 272
About the Author
Martin Rees is Astronomer Royal, and has been Master of Trinity College and Director of the Institute of Astronomy at Cambridge University. As a member of the UK's House of Lords and former President of the Royal Society, he is much involved in international science and issues of technological risk. His books include Our Cosmic Habitat (Princeton), Just Six Numbers, and Our Final Hour (published in the UK as Our Final Century). He lives in Cambridge, UK. Twitter @LordMartinRees
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On the Future
A provocative and inspiring look at the future of humanity and science from world-renowned scientist and bestselling author Martin Rees. Humanity has reached a critical moment. Our world is unsettled and rapidly changing, and we face existential risks over the next century. Various outcomes—good and bad—are possible. Yet our approach to the future is characterised by short-term thinking, polarising debates,...PaperbackSold Out -
Our Cosmic Habitat
Our universe seems strangely biophilic, or hospitable to life. Is this happenstance, providence, or coincidence? According to cosmologist Martin Rees, the answer depends on the answer to another question, the one posed by Einstein's famous remark: "What interests me most is whether God could have made the world differently." This highly engaging book explores the fascinating consequences of the answer...PaperbackSold Out
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