Books matching: impact on society
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:"Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping us Hooked" by Adam Alter delves into the world of behavioral addiction caused by technology. The book explores the impact of addictive behaviors on individuals and society, discussing the psychological and social aspects of technology addiction. Through compelling cases and examples, Alter highlights the dangers of excessive technology usage and proposes solutions to combat this growing issue. The writing style is informative, engaging, and thought-provoking, presenting a blend of research findings and personal insights to shed light on the addictive nature of modern technology.
Most people spend between one and four hours on their phones each day—and many far longer. This isn’t a minority issue. If, as guidelines suggest, we should spend less than an hour on our phones each ... - #2
Save:'Sugar Blues' by William Dufty delves into the history and dangers of sugar consumption, portraying sugar as the main antagonist affecting people's health and well-being. Through a mix of historical narrative and personal anecdotes, the author sheds light on how sugar has become pervasive in society and its detrimental effects on metabolism and psyche. challenges readers to rethink their diets and consider the impact of refined sugar on their overall health.
- #3
Save:The Space Merchants by Frederik Pohl and C.M. Kornbluth is a science fiction novel set in a future where corporations have taken over in an oligarchy style government. The story explores a world where water has become scarce, available only to the very wealthy, and corporations are looking to colonize space. The narrative follows the protagonist as he goes from a life of privilege to fighting for survival, with his perspectives evolving as he delves deeper into the challenges he faces. The book presents a satirical take on a society where advertisement reigns supreme, and the consequences of having too much power concentrated in the hands of a few.
The writing style of The Space Merchants is described as smart, humorous, cynical, and entertaining, with a fast-paced plot that keeps readers engaged. It portrays a dystopian world where the distinction between being a citizen and a consumer is stark, highlighting the consequences of unchecked corporate power and the impact of consumerism on society at large.
As I dressed that morning I ran over in my mind the long list of statistics, evasions, and exaggerations that they would expect in my report. My section—Production—had been plagued with a long series ... - #4
Save:'The Peripheral' by William Gibson is a science fiction novel that explores a near future and a future 70 years ahead, where characters can interact with both time frames through technology. The story involves time travel, virtual presences, and altering timelines, all while navigating through a world dominated by corporate and political greed. Gibson's writing style is described as compelling, vivid, and challenging, requiring readers to work to understand the complex situations and terminology introduced in the narrative.
They didn’t think Flynne’s brother had PTSD, but that sometimes the haptics glitched him. They said it was like phantom limb, ghosts of the tattoos he’d worn in the war, put there to tell him when to ... - #5
Save:'The Reformation: A History' by Diarmaid MacCulloch delves into the complexities of the Reformation era, exploring the theological issues, political dynamics, and societal impacts of this transformative period in European history. MacCulloch provides a detailed analysis of the various phases of the Reformation, from the radical reform of Western Catholicism to the emergence of new ecclesiastical structures and the rise of evangelical movements. Through rich storytelling and insightful commentary, the author connects the religious struggles of the time with the everyday lives of Europeans, highlighting the diverse worldviews and religious eccentricities that characterized late medieval Christendom.
MacCulloch's writing style is lauded for its clarity, depth, and engaging prose, making a dense subject matter accessible and captivating for readers. offers a comprehensive examination of the Reformation's impact on European society, tracing how religious strife reshaped individual identities, political landscapes, and cultural norms over the span of two centuries. By exploring themes of religious extremism, political intrigue, and personal piety, MacCulloch weaves a compelling narrative that sheds light on the enduring legacy of the Reformation in shaping modern religious beliefs and practices.
Another English parish church, Wenhaston in Suffolk, preserves a fine early sixteenth-century example of this Doom or last judgement by God, painted on boards that once filled the arch above the Rood ... 'Brazen: Rebel Ladies Who Rocked the World' by Penelope Bagieu is a graphic novel that profiles the lives of extraordinary women who rebelled against societal norms and expectations. Through engaging storytelling and magnificent illustrations, the book showcases the accomplishments of these feisty females who overcame adversity and dared to be different. Each woman's life is depicted in short biographical sketches, spanning various time periods and cultures, making it an educational and inspiring read for readers of all ages.
- #7
Save:'On Power' by Robert A. Caro is a reflective and insightful lecture where the author delves into the essence of political power through his extensive research on figures like Robert Moses and Lyndon Johnson. Caro's narration not only touches upon the lives of these influential men but also explores the broader themes of power dynamics, its impact on society, and the intricate process of wielding political influence. The book provides a glimpse into Caro's investigative journey, his dedication to understanding the mechanisms of power, and the profound effects it has on individuals and communities.
The lecture serves as a captivating introduction to Caro's extensive biographical works, offering listeners a condensed yet powerful narrative that showcases the author's expertise in storytelling and research. Through anecdotes about his writing process, personal experiences, and the crucial role played by his wife in his work, Caro invites the audience to ponder on the complexities of political power and its far-reaching consequences. The book not only highlights Caro's meticulous approach to his subjects but also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the nuances of power dynamics in shaping historical events and societal structures.
- #8
Save:'Zero Day Code' in the 'End of Days' series by John Birmingham is a post-apocalyptic fiction centered around a cyber attack that cripples modern technology, leading to the breakdown of society and the unraveling of civilization. The author creates a realistic scenario based on a deep understanding of world politics and societal pitfalls, weaving in minimalistic but cold-blooded violence and living, breathing characters to set the stage for a new series. Despite some inaccuracies in military details and vernacular, the unfolding of the apocalypse is portrayed in a detailed and believable manner, with a focus on the thin veneer of civilization fading away as man's base nature is unleashed.
- #9
Save:'AI 2041: Ten Visions for Our Future' by Kai-Fu Lee is a collection of ten science fiction stories set in the year 2041, each exploring different aspects of how artificial intelligence (AI) will impact human life and society. The stories are interwoven with explanations of various AI technologies and their implications on bias, economics, social impact, and more. The author combines evidence-based science fiction with post-story analysis to provide a realistic and informative portrayal of a future permeated by AI.
presents a roadmap for AI capabilities in the year 2041, based on ongoing AI research and industry practices. Each story is crafted to realistically depict everyday life in the future, incorporating AI as a central element of human interactions and societal structures. The storytelling is immersive and vivid, offering readers a tangible glimpse into how AI might shape the future.
- #10
Save:John Reader's 'The Untold History of the Potato' explores the fascinating journey of the humble spud from its origins in South America to becoming a staple food in many parts of the world. The book delves into the historical significance of the potato, tracing its impact on the development of modern societies and the unintended consequences that arose from its cultivation. Reader's writing style weaves together anecdotes, scientific facts, and historical accounts to present a comprehensive narrative that sheds light on the potato's role in shaping human history.
The narrative in 'The Untold History of the Potato' captures the evolution of the potato from a curiosity to a delicacy and eventually a crucial food source. Reader's well-researched exploration of the potato's journey across continents, its nutritional value, and the challenges it faces from blight and changing climates offers readers a deeper understanding of the significance of this unassuming tuber in the global food system.
