AMA | December 2024

Published in 1949, '1984' is a cautionary tale by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism. The novel is set in a dystopian future where the world is divided into three super-states, with the protagonist Winston Smith living in Oceania, ruled by the mysterious and omnipotent leader Big Brother. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites historical records to conform to the Party's ever-changing narrative. He begins an illicit love affair with Julia and starts to rebel against the Party, but they are eventually caught and subjected to brutal torture and indoctrination. The novel highlights themes of government surveillance, manipulation of language and history, and the suppression of individual freedom and independent thought.

In this book, Sean Carroll argues that the crisis in physics since 1927, stemming from the gaps in quantum mechanics, can be resolved by accepting the Many-Worlds theory. He explains that every quantum event results in the creation of multiple worlds, each with different outcomes. Carroll tackles major objections to this theory and provides a lucid explanation of how it reconciles quantum mechanics with Einstein’s theory of relativity. The book challenges conventional notions of reality and offers a new understanding of our place in the universe and the nature of spacetime.

Written for the lay reader, 'What Is Life? ' is based on a series of public lectures delivered by Erwin Schrödinger in 1943 at Trinity College, Dublin. The book addresses the fundamental question of how living organisms can be understood in terms of their molecular and atomic structure. Schrödinger discusses the stability of genes, the concept of 'negative entropy,' and how life maintains order despite the second law of thermodynamics. He also speculates on the role of mutations, the nature of consciousness, and the philosophical implications of his findings. The book had a significant impact on the development of modern biology, influencing scientists such as James D. Watson and Francis Crick in their discovery of the DNA structure.

In this book, Jennifer Ouellette delves into the science of self by undergoing various tests, including DNA analysis and fMRI scans. She explores the fields of genotyping, neuroscience, and psychology, using personal anecdotes and pop culture references to make complex concepts accessible. The book discusses topics such as the genetic components of alcoholism, the impact of drugs on the brain, and the debate over whether sexual orientation is a choice or determined by genetics. Ouellette concludes that while scientific investigations provide valuable insights, our personal narratives are essential to understanding our selves fully.

The Emergent Multiverse presents a detailed and modern account of the Everett interpretation of quantum mechanics. David Wallace argues that by taking quantum theory literally, the apparent paradoxes and weirdness of quantum mechanics are mitigated, and the theory can be seen as describing a world that constantly branches into multiple universes. The book addresses key challenges such as the ontological and probability problems associated with the Everett interpretation and provides a clear and accessible survey of the work in both physics and philosophy of science.

In this book, Astra Taylor delves into the complexities and shortcomings of modern democracy. She argues that despite the widespread belief in democratic systems, true democracy as an ideal is not yet realized. The book examines the historical and contemporary challenges to democratic principles, including economic inequality, surveillance capitalism, and the erosion of civil liberties. Taylor's work is a critical reflection on the state of democracy and a call to action to reclaim and redefine it in a more inclusive and equitable manner.