The Information
A History, a Theory, a Flood
Format:Paperback
Publisher:HarperCollins Publishers
Published:1st Mar '12
Should be back in stock very soon
This book provides a captivating exploration of how information has shaped human history and continues to influence our lives today.
In The Information, James Gleick explores the profound impact of information on human civilization. He traces the evolution of information from ancient methods of communication, such as African talking drums, to modern digital platforms like Wikipedia. This journey highlights the pivotal moments in history that have shaped our understanding and utilization of information, including the invention of writing and the development of Morse code.
Gleick delves into the ways we transmit and preserve knowledge, illustrating how each era has contributed to the information revolution we experience today. He examines the significance of various milestones, such as the creation of dictionaries and navigational charts, which laid the groundwork for contemporary information systems. The narrative is rich with anecdotes and insights that make complex concepts accessible to the reader.
Ultimately, The Information is not just a historical account; it is a thought-provoking exploration of how information has transformed our lives. Gleick's engaging writing style invites readers to reflect on the nature of knowledge and the ways it shapes our reality, making this book a significant contribution to the understanding of our information-driven world.
‘An audacious book which offers remarkable insight. Gleick takes us, with verve and fizz, on a journey from African drums to computers, liberally sprinkling delightful factoids along the way. This is a book we need to give us a fresh perspective on how we communicate and how that shapes our world.’ The Royal Society Winton Prize Judges
‘Mind-stretching but enlightening … the power and breadth of the ideas involved cannot but make you marvel.’ Daily Mail
‘Magisterial…It is not merely a history of information, but also a theory and a prospectus. To describe it as ambitious is to engage in almost comical understatement.’ Matthew Syed, The Times
‘A deeply impressive and rather beautiful book.’ Philip Ball, Observer
‘The fascinating story of how humans have transmitted knowledge…broad and occasionally brilliant.’ Sunday Times
‘This is a work of rare penetration, a true history of ideas whose witty and determined treatment of its material brings clarity to a complex subject.’ Tim Martin, Daily Telegraph
- Winner of Royal Society Winton Prize for Science Books 2012
ISBN: 9780007225743
Dimensions: 198mm x 129mm x 35mm
Weight: 370g
544 pages