First published 1971. Translated by Michael Kandel, Penguin paperback, 2016, pp 338, c.108,000 words. This is a collection of twelve stories featuring Ijon Tichy, a space explorer. They are inventive genius, often very amusing, and all exploring the nature (and absurdity) of humanity and existence. The philosophy is lightened by the frequent need to outwit […]
Star Diaries, The — Stanislaw Lem Read More »
First published 2014. Penguin paperback, 2015, pp 421, c.160,000 words. Tegmark is a very articulate physics communicator. On television he is excellent in explaining complex phenomena in an accessible fashion, and he always seems to have a twinkle in his eye. The same personality shines through this book. The opening five chapters are a master-class
Our Mathematical Universe — Max Tegmark Read More »
First published 2021. Penguin, paperback, 2022, pp 310 (including 80 pages of notes and index), c.83,000 words (main text). Kate Darling studied economics and law before teaching and researching the legal and ethical implications of technology. This book distills her thoughts on how robots should be considered in these terms. Her big idea is that
New Breed, The — Kate Darling Read More »
First published 1946. Unwin, paperback, 1981, pp 842 (including index of pp 51), c.390,000 words (main text). This is a heavyweight book, and not just its length but also in terms of scope and the concentration required to follow what is being said – at least for the non-philosopher. Russell is attempting to place the
History of Western Philosophy — Bertrand Russell Read More »