This seminal book injects the topic of superintelligence into the academic and popular mainstream. What happens when machines surpass humans in general intelligence? Will artificial agents save or destroy us? In a tour de force of analytic thinking, Bostrom lays a foundation for understanding the future of humanity and intelligent life.
A fascinating exploration of how computer algorithms can be applied to our everyday lives.
David Whyte explores the underlying meaning of 52 ordinary words, with an introduction by Maria Popova of Brain Pickings
The classic translation of the cornerstone work of western philosophyPlato's Republic is widely acknowledged as one of the most influential works in the history of philosophy. Presented in the form of a dialogue between Socrates and three different interlocutors, it is an inquiry into the notion of a perfect community and the ideal individual within it. During the conversation other questions are raised: what is goodness; what is reality; what is knowledge; what is the purpose of education? With remarkable lucidity and deft use of allegory, Plato arrives at a depiction of a state bound by harmony and ruled by 'philosopher kings'. Translated by DESMOND LEE with an Introduction by MELISSA LANE
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse: The Art of the Movie is an enthralling book by Ramin Zahed. Published by Abrams & Chronicle Books in 2023, this book provides a deep dive into the artistry and creativity behind the hit movie. The genre of the book is art and film, and it is a must-read for all Spider-Man and movie art enthusiasts. Zahed, known for his insightful and detailed approach, brings the Spider-Verse to life through this book. He takes the readers on a journey across the multiverse, showcasing the unique art styles and techniques used to create different Spider-Man universes. Published in 2023, this book is a testament to the evolution of film art over the years. Abrams & Chronicle Books, renowned for their high-quality publications, have ensured that the art and insights in this book are beautifully presented, making it a perfect addition to any fan's collection.
Created in collaboration with the Andy Warhol Foundation, this book reveals hundreds of the artist's instant pictures, many seen here for the first time. From self-portraits to still lives, anonymous nudes to New York high society, from Cabbage Patch dolls to portraits of Mick Jagger and Debbie Harry, these impromptu images offer a unique...
'A compelling narrative of the human story' TIM MARSHALL, author of Prisoners of Geography'Lively, rich and exciting... full of surprises' PETER FRANKOPAN, author of The Silk Roads_____________Sand, salt, iron, copper, oil and lithium. They built our world, and they will transform our future.These are the six most crucial substances in human history. They took us from the Dark Ages to the present day. They power our computers and phones, build our homes and offices, and create life-saving medicines. But most of us take them completely for granted.In Material World, Ed Conway travels the globe - from the sweltering depths of the deepest mine in Europe, to spotless silicon chip factories in Taiwan, to the eerie green pools where lithium originates - to uncover a secret world we rarely see. Revealing the true marvel of these substances, he follows the mind-boggling journeys, miraculous processes and little-known companies that turn the raw materials we all need into products of astonishing complexity.As we wrestle with climate change, energy crises and the threat of new global conflict, Conway shows why these substances matter more than ever before, and how the hidden battle to control them will shape our geopolitical future. This is the story of civilisation - our ambitions and glory, innovations and appetites - from a new perspective: literally from the ground up.
From bestselling author Johanna Basford, a stunning new colouring book that invites artists to explore the great indoorsThrough her bestselling colouring books and distinctive illustrations, Johanna Basford's beautiful forests, ocean depths, and hidden magical kingdoms have enchanted millions of people around the world. In this newest work, Basford takes her audience indoors, inviting them to explore the wonders of the worlds within. Hidden within every illustration in Rooms of Wonder is a secret key and a locked door. Find the key, unlock the door and continue to the next room. Discover a busy craft studio, a wizard's workshop, a mouth-watering ice cream parlour and an opulent banquet hall. With hidden treasures, curious spaces and a few enchanted interiors, all you need to do is unlock the first door and begin your magical journey.
THE NUMBER ONE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER From one of our greatest voices in modern philosophy, author of The Course of Love, The Consolations of Philosophy, Religion for Atheists and The School of Life The Architecture of Happiness explores the fascinating hidden links between the buildings we live in and our long-term wellbeing'Engaging and intelligent... Full of splendid ideas, happily and beautifully expressed' Independent 'Alain de Botton takes big, complex subjects and writes about them with thoughtful and deceptive innocence' Observer'Clever, provocative and fresh as a daisy' Literary ReviewBestselling author Alain de Botton has written about love, travel, status and how philosophy can console us. Now he turns his attention to one of our most intense but often hidden love affairs: with our houses and their furnishings. He asks: What makes a house truly beautiful?Why are many new houses so ugly?Why do we argue so bitterly about sofas and pictures - and can differences of taste ever be satisfactorily resolved?Will minimalism make us happier than ornaments? To answer these questions and many more, de Botton looks at buildings across the world, from medieval wooden huts to modern skyscrapers; he examines sofas and cathedrals, tea sets and office complexes, and teases out a host of often surprising philosophical insights. The Architecture of Happiness will take you on a beguiling tour through the history and psychology of architecture and interior design, and will forever alter your relationship with buildings. It will change the way you look at your current home - and help you make the right decisions about your next one.
Meet the ninety year old doctor, who, with the aid of a few simple exercises, is still practising medicine. His is just one of the incredible stories brain expert Norman Doidge tells as he reveals our brain's remarkable ability to repair itself through the power of positive thought. In The Brain That Changes Itself Doidge introduces us to the fascinating stories at the cutting edge of the brain science and the emerging discipline of 'neuroplasticity' . We meet the stroke victim who unable to feed or dress himself learned to move and talk again, the woman with a rare brain condition that left her feeling as though she was perpetually falling but who through a series of exercises rewired her brain to overcome this and the maverick scientists over turning centuries of assumptions about the brain and it's capacity for renewal. Doidge shows how their incredible work is helping the blind to see, the deaf to hear and causing Nobel laureates to rethink our model of the brain. This remarkable book will leave you with a sense of wonder at the capabilities of the human brain and the power to change which lies within all of us.
'Enigmatic, vatic, emphatic, passionate . . . Nietzsche's works together make a unique statement in the literature of European ideas' A. C. GraylingNietzsche was one of the most revolutionary thinkers in Western philosophy, and Thus Spoke Zarathustra remains his most influential work. It describes how the ancient Persian prophet Zarathustra descends from his solitude in the mountains to tell the world that God is dead and that the Superman, the human embodiment of divinity, is his successor. With blazing intensity, Nietzsche argues that the meaning of existence is not to be found in religious pieties or meek submission, but in an all-powerful life force: passionate, chaotic and free.Translated with an introduction by R. J. HOLLINGDALE
With an introduction by Will Self.A classic work of psychology, this international bestseller provides a groundbreaking insight into the human mind.If a man has lost a leg or an eye, he knows he has lost a leg or an eye; but if he has lost a self - himself - he cannot know it, because he is no longer there to know it. In this extraordinary book, Dr. Oliver Sacks recounts the stories of patients struggling to adapt to often bizarre worlds of neurological disorder. Here are people who can no longer recognize everyday objects or those they love; who are stricken with violent tics or shout involuntary obscenities; who have been dismissed as autistic or retarded, yet are gifted with uncanny artistic or mathematical talents. If inconceivably strange, these brilliant tales illuminate what it means to be human. A provocative exploration of the mysteries of the human mind, The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat is a million-copy bestseller by the twentieth century's greatest neurologist.
An innovative and accessible guide to more than 2,000 years of thoughtTo the complete novice learning about philosophy can be daunting - The Philosophy eBook changes all that. With the use of powerful and easy-to-follow images, succinct quotations, and explanations that are easily understandable, this ebook cuts through any misunderstandings to demystify the subject.Each chapter is organised chronologically, and covers not only the big ideas, but the philosophers who first voiced them, as well as cross-referencing with earlier and later ideas and thinkers. The Philosophy eBook untangles knotty theories and sheds light on abstract concepts, and is perfect for anyone with a general interest in how our social, political, and ethical ideas are formed, as well as students of philosophy and politics.Covers major and niche topics, from moral ethics to philosophies of religion
The illustrated edition of Stephen Hawking's classic work - this edition includes an appendix with updates made by Professor Hawking in 2016. In this edition, Professor Hawking explains his complex theories through a fresh visual dimension.
How to Read a Book, a masterpiece penned by Mortimer J. Adler, is a must-read for book lovers and learners alike. Published by Simon & Schuster in 2008, this book transcends the boundaries of a conventional read. It's not just a book; it's a comprehensive guide that teaches you how to extract the maximum knowledge and understanding from any book you read. This book, belonging to the genre of self-help, provides a profound perspective on reading, treating it as a conversation between the reader and the author. Mortimer J. Adler, with his expertise and understanding, takes the readers on a journey, empowering them to indulge in the art of effective reading. Simon & Schuster, a publisher known for its diverse and influential books, adds another gem to its collection with this publication. In essence, 'How to Read a Book' is a valuable resource that equips readers with the tools to become more engaged and thoughtful readers.
Free will is the foundation of western society, dictating our notions of fairness and justice, punishment and reward, and our very identity as individuals. But as world-renowned scientist Robert Sapolsky shows, there is not a shred of evidence to suggest that free will exists. What would happen if we accepted that free will is a powerful illusion?
Why We Sleep is a compelling and eye-opening book by Matthew Walker. Published in 2018 by Simon + Schuster Inc., this book delves into the fascinating world of sleep, exploring why it is so crucial to our wellbeing. As a renowned neuroscientist and sleep expert, Walker provides an in-depth look at the powerful effects of sleep on our health, brain, and life. The book is a mix of cutting-edge scientific research and practical advice, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the importance of sleep and how to improve their own. It's a standout in its genre, providing not just information, but also solutions and strategies to help readers improve their sleep and, by extension, their lives. Why We Sleep is not just a book; it's a wake-up call about the power of sleep. Published by Simon + Schuster Inc., it's an essential read that has left a lasting impact on the genre.
A raw, cerebral work devoted to the inextricability of pleasure and pain, and to the question of what role, if any, aesthetic beauty can play in times of great heartache or grief.
The ultimate reference for creative cooks
The Expectation Effect is a captivating book penned by the gifted writer, David Robson. Published in the twilight of 2022 by Canongate Books Ltd., this masterpiece belongs to a genre that stimulates thought and sparks curiosity. The Expectation Effect is not just a title, but a journey into the realm of the mind, exploring the power of our expectations and their impact on our lives. Robson's eloquent writing style coupled with his profound understanding of the subject matter makes this book a must-read. Canongate Books Ltd., renowned for bringing quality literature to readers, once again delivers with this publication. So, prepare to delve into the intriguing world of The Expectation Effect, and allow David Robson to guide you through this enlightening journey.
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