Notes
from the Holocene
A Brief History of
the Future
by Dorion Sagan
In a thought-provoking, humorous, and engaging
style, Dorion Sagan combines philosophy, science, and an understanding
of illusion to probe the deep questions of existence.
Operating on the precept that the universe is far weirder than we might
imagine, Sagan — son of acclaimed scientists Carl Sagan and
Lynn Margulis — uses his knowledge of philosophy, science,
sleight-of-hand magic, and the fantastical writings of Philip K. Dick
to explore some of the deepest questions we face on Earth. He provides
fresh insights as to why we are here, the nature of technology, the
prognosis for humanity, the living nature of our planet, and a reasoned
explanation to why our universe is probably just one of an infinite
number.
Sagan also provides answers to twelve pressing questions:
Why does life exist?
Why do we drink water?
Can we save the Earth from global warming?
Are human beings central and special?
Is it possible that we've arisen by pure chance?
Is the Earth an organism?
Are we part of its exo-brain?
If it is alive, can it reproduce?
Can the universe?
What does the future hold in store for us?
Does God exist? What is the nature of ultimate
reality?
Notes
from the Holocene is a prime example of the writing coming
from a new generation of scientific writers. It will inspire readers to
think for themselves while leaving them chuckling with tongue-in-cheek
anecdotes—a rare combination that Sagan delivers with ease.
And yes, as geneticist J.B.S. Haldane says, "the universe is not only
stranger than we imagine, but stranger than we can imagine."
Notes from the
Holocene A Brief History of the Future
by Dorion Sagan
Chelsea Green Publishing, 2007.
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