Hacking | What’s in the Blue Box? | S46-E1

This book explores the remarkable increase in human life expectancy over the past century. In 1920, global life expectancy was just over forty years, but today it has more than doubled. Steven Johnson delves into the factors behind this progress, including vaccines, reductions in famines, and improvements in public health. The book tells the story of cooperative innovation, public support, and collaborative networks that have driven these advancements. It also discusses future challenges, such as the impact of COVID-19 and global threats like climate change, and emphasizes the importance of continued public health efforts to ensure the benefits of extended life are shared by all communities.

Exploding the Phone tells the story of the teenagers and outlaws who hacked into the telephone system in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. It explores the rise of AT&T's monopoly, the creation of sophisticated machines, and the discovery of vulnerabilities that allowed 'phone phreaks' to make free long-distance calls. The book delves into the clandestine world of these hackers, their interactions with mobsters and law enforcement, and the cultural impact of their activities.