Palo Alto

This book offers a comprehensive history of Silicon Valley, exploring its evolution through ideologies and technologies over 150 years, while addressing its complex legacy and proposing a vision for change.

"Palo Alto" offers a deep and unfiltered exploration of the town that lies at the core of Silicon Valley. Author Malcolm Harris presents a narrative that intertwines the region's idyllic image—characterized by pleasant weather, educated residents, and a thriving tech scene—with a darker history marked by environmental degradation and colonialism. The book delves into the paradox of a place that is both a hub of innovation and a site of historical injustices, including its foundations on stolen Indigenous lands.

Harris meticulously traces the evolution of Northern California over the past 150 years, examining the ideologies and policies that have shaped its development. He discusses a range of topics, from the influence of IQ tests and racial genetics to the implications of "broken windows" theory. The narrative highlights how these concepts have contributed to the region's growth and its role in the global capitalist system, ultimately leading to significant societal changes and challenges in the 21st century.

Through this comprehensive history, "Palo Alto" serves not only as a reflection on the past but also as a call to action for the future. Harris presents a radical proposition for how society might begin to shift its trajectory towards a more equitable and sustainable existence. This urgent and thought-provoking work invites readers to reconsider the impact of technological advancement and economic growth on our lives and the planet.