Books of Titans Podcast #268 - The Idea Machine by Joel J. Miller
Nov 14, 2025
Explore the fascinating history of books and their role in shaping ideas and culture. Discover how different materials influenced the concept of a book and the evolution from scrolls to codices. Delve into the connection between libraries and modern AI tools, and the intriguing argument that reading fosters empathy. Learn about Christianity's impact on book design and how writing aids thought organization. This discussion offers a new appreciation for the book as a powerful instrument in human thought and communication.
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Advance Copy And Local Talk
- Erik obtained a secret advance copy because he knows Joel Miller and saw him speak locally in Nashville.
- He shares favorites from the book and insights learned at a November 13 book event.
Appreciate The Book As Technology
- Read The Idea Machine to gain appreciation for the physical book as an idea-transfer technology.
- Use this perspective to value how formats shape thinking and cultural memory.
Books As Machines For Thinking
- Joel J. Miller defines the book as a portable collection of written ideas that extends human memory and experience.
- A book externalizes thought, lets writers edit ideas, and turns mental content into public things people can debate.
