Customer Reviews

The Future Does Not Compute: Transcending the Machines in Our Midst

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Hey. Listen. If you're going to choose among all the books that criticize computers and the Internet, this is, I promise, your best bet. Calm, rational, articulate, engaging, it manages to be *thoughtful* rather than ranting or over-emotional, which is a common problem that drowns and ultimately destroys the rhetoric of many of Talbott's peers. Talbott's final conclusion, woven beautifully from his collection of sensitive and thought-provoking essays, has everything to do with human beings as well as computers and the Internet: we should remain awake and aware of the subtle consequences of computer and communication technology. Talbott manages--through easy-going qualification and a rational, neutral attitude--to place himself in the role of a guide rather than a preacher. I can not recommend this book more highly.

Do you have the answers? Can you accept the answers? This book asks you questions, tough questions, about the very technology that put you on this page so you could read this review. Are computers going to redefine reality, or ruin reality? Is this an evolutionary step up the ladder, or a slide into an empty abyss? Do you see this as a great boon, or a simple electronic trick? Talbott's subject is the BIGGEST question ever asked - What does it mean to be a human being? In examining computers and the cyber-age, the author demands we answer this question. At the same time he insists we see how limiting the computer is as a human tool. The real questions and issues are about us, the creators and users of these idiot savants. This book eloquently challenges us to look at who or what is in control. We really have no choice but to face our answers.

This book should be read by all those who live with the Internet and technology. While not exactly a Luddite (Talbott uses computers and the Internet a great deal), the author presents many reasons why we should not just accept the promises of a technological paradise without reflecting on its consequences.

This book is well written, provocative and covers a lot of ground in a very short space of time. The author presents a well-reasoned argument for reversing the usual cause and effect critique of the evil computer, and his suggestion that the problem is in the way we think about technology is right on.

It's okay, I had to read it for a class. He raises some good questions but he's long winded. A lot of us have already thought about these questions. Talbott feeds you some good food for thought though.

Once being an engineer, a scientist, a professor of Electrical Engineering, etc., etc, now I'm watching this world amazed by its reality and its beauty. My soul is awaken. The wonderful book by Stephen Talbott tells us who we are and to where we do belong

email me, I'll let you know...