Summaries of books about Science & Math:
Hubbert's Peak
The Impending World Oil Shortage - Revised and Updated Edition
Kenneth S. Deffeyes
The book presents a detailed analysis of global oil reserves and production rates, arguing that the peak of oil production is imminent due to geological constraints. It explores the consequences of this peak for society and the economy, and discusses potential alternatives and adaptations to a future with declining oil supplies.
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Rock, Paper, Scissors
Game Theory in Everyday Life
Len Fisher
The book explores how game theory explains human behavior and decision-making through everyday situations and interactions. It illustrates strategic thinking and the science behind choices in common scenarios, from social dilemmas to evolutionary survival strategies.
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On Being
A scientist's exploration of the great questions of existence
Peter Atkins
The book delves into the nature of existence through the lens of scientific inquiry, exploring topics such as the origins of the universe, the laws of nature, and the concept of life. It seeks to provide a deeper understanding of reality by examining philosophical questions with a rigorous, evidence-based approach characteristic of the scientific method.
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The New Breed
What Our History with Animals Reveals about Our Future with Robots
Kate Darling
The book explores the relationship between humans and animals throughout history to shed light on how we might interact with and ethically treat robots as they become more integrated into society. It draws parallels between animal domestication and attachment and the future of human-robot interaction, suggesting that our treatment of robots could be informed by the lessons learned from our bonds with animals.
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The Climate Fix
What Scientists and Politicians Won't Tell You About Global Warming
Roger Pielke Jr.
The book challenges common perspectives on climate change policy, arguing that current approaches are unrealistic and politically unfeasible. It proposes a pragmatic strategy focused on innovation and adaptation to address global warming effectively.
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Underbug
An Obsessive Tale of Termites and Technology
Lisa Margonelli
The book explores the complex world of termites, delving into their social structure, engineering capabilities, and potential to revolutionize technology and science. It intertwines entomological research with broader themes of environmental impact and the human quest for understanding and harnessing nature's secrets.
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Light
A Radiant History from Creation to the Quantum Age
Bruce Watson
The book explores the human understanding and use of light throughout history, from ancient mythologies and Enlightenment discoveries to modern scientific advancements in quantum physics. It delves into the cultural, scientific, and technological developments that have shaped our relationship with light, including the works of luminaries like Newton and Einstein.
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100 Plus
How the Coming Age of Longevity Will Change Everything, From Careers and Relationships to Family and
Sonia Arrison
The book explores the societal implications of extended human lifespans due to advancements in biotechnology and medicine, examining how living beyond 100 years could transform careers, relationships, and family dynamics. It delves into the ethical, economic, and cultural challenges that will arise as people live longer, healthier lives.
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Electric Brain
How the New Science of Brainwaves Reads Minds, Tells Us How We Learn, and Helps Us Change for the Better
R. Douglas Fields
The book explores the science of brainwaves, detailing how they can be used to understand human thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It discusses technological advancements in neuroscience that enable the reading of minds, the enhancement of learning, and the potential for personal change and therapeutic interventions.
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The Discovery of Global Warming
Revised and Expanded Edition
Spencer R. Weart
The book traces the scientific and societal evolution of the understanding of climate change, from early speculations to the complex computer models and international negotiations of the modern era. It provides a comprehensive history of how scientists came to realize that human activities could alter the global climate and explores the challenges of dealing with this unprecedented global threat.
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