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Format
286 page nonfiction hardcover, which includes an index, an essential and welcome feature (often overlooked by publishers).
Introduction
If a notion makes us squirm, then it is usually because it speaks to the heart of some matter that we subconsciously acknowledge, but which makes us uncomfortable. We tend to initially reject such ideas out of hand. But those of us who are seekers of truth, or of opportunities to enlarge upon our experiences, no matter how unpleasant their possible consequences, cannot turn our heads from unsavory thoughts. To do so is to ultimately sacrifice our integrity, and perhaps the richest banquets life has to offer.
In Darwin Among the Machines, George Dyson offers some uncomfortable ideas:
If anything shakes our confidence as humans, it's the idea that there are arbitrary or nonbenevolent forces greater than us, or at least those which are beyond our control. Yet Dyson unfolds the hypothesis that machines hold potentials greater than our ability to control, or even to understand.
As humans we are innately curious, and our ability to react to new technologies, new ideas, or possible new intelligences, is hindered by our societal superstructures. My feeling is that if sentient digital organisms emerged, we would be either too intrigued to stop their evolution, or too encumbered. Looking at it in a different light, we may never be able to discern beings so different from ourselves. Just as the workings of our mind are unperceived and inscrutable to the individual cells that make up the very tissues of our bodies, the workings of other intelligences may be utterly unperceived and inscrutable to us as human beings. But that doesn't have to hinder us from considering the possibilities.
Historical Content
George Dyson's book is significant for its provocative and persuasive argument for the consideration of the emergence of a global intelligence. Only time will tell if the universe will unfold as George has suggested, but even if it doesn't, there are sufficient insights to open new avenues of thought, and to earn it a long term berth on library shelves.
There is another aspect of Dyson's book which raises it above many that purport to highlight the historical developments in this field. The book industry is awash with inbred and circular references to historical 'facts.' What is written in one book is quoted ad infinitum in others, without enough skeptical analysis of the original sources. Darwin Among the Machines provides a sufficiently unique outlook, and gives the impression that the author sought for historical documents with a fresh perspective, unearthing overlooked contributions and bringing them into the light for broader scrutiny and appreciation.
This book is not an overnight read, especially as there are numerous quotes and literary references; but stay with it, and the reward becomes increasingly rich and engaging, as Dyson's insightful editorial threads bind together the historical references, and reveal his talent as a writer.
Darwin Among the Machines stands on its own, without the necessity of family references to George's father, eminent scientist/writer Freeman Dyson. But I mention George's background in the context of his interaction as a child, even if indirect, with some of the preeminent thinkers of our time. George had the opportunity to roam the campus of the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, and to tinker with technology with a child's unstructured curiosity, providing an early foundation for his interest in this area and his current contributions. Those who have followed George's interim activities, from living in a treehouse, to designing, building and writing about kayaks, will better understand the seeds of his fresh vision.
Summing Up
If your idea of a good time is watching Married with Children, and your reading limited to one or two of the cartoons in the Sunday papers, Darwin Among the Machines probably won't interest you. But if you are intrigued by the history of computer technology and its evolution, I recommend this book.
I also feel this is an appropriate educational tool, as there are many assertions and proposals that will spark valuable classroom discussion and debate.
Darwin Among the Machines offers food for thought. After reading the book all the way through, there is plenty of incentive to open the pages randomly and savor again the editorial insertions and assertions offered by the author.
Other articles in Attainment:
Hanging Out Your Shingle: Finding the Right Office Space
The Alternative Office: From Garages to Sailboats
The Online Store: Setting Up Shop on the Web
Promoting Your Mousetrap: An Anecdotal Look at Consumer Buying Habits
Point to Point: The Illusion of Free Enterprise
Selling Your Software: Even if You Hate Doing Business
Suggested Web sites related to this review of Darwin Among the Machines:
Take a look at the Edge, a forum for ideas and discussion. An interesting organization to which George has contributed is The Island One Society, a meeting place for future space colonists.
Island One information on propulsion systems, with Freeman Dyson references and input from George Dyson.
Book review by Simon Ings.To purchase this book:
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