SUPERCONVERGENCE: Biotechnology Is About to Transform the World. Are We Ready?

In 'Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow', Yuval Noah Harari examines the future of humanity, predicting that in the 21st century, humans will strive for happiness, immortality, and god-like powers. The book discusses how technological developments, such as artificial intelligence and genetic engineering, will shape human society. Harari speculates on the possibilities of overcoming death, creating artificial life, and the potential risks and philosophical implications of these advancements. He also explores the impact of humanism, individualism, and transhumanism on our future and questions the continued dominance of humans in a world increasingly driven by data and algorithms.

In 'Hacking Darwin', Jamie Metzl delves into the transformative power of genetic technologies, exploring their potential to reshape human life while examining the ethical considerations and risks associated with genetic engineering. The book provides a balanced perspective on the promises and challenges of this emerging field.

This book surveys the history of humankind from the Stone Age to the 21st century, focusing on Homo sapiens. It divides human history into four major parts: the Cognitive Revolution, the Agricultural Revolution, the Unification of Humankind, and the Scientific Revolution. Harari argues that Homo sapiens dominate the world due to their unique ability to cooperate in large numbers through beliefs in imagined realities such as gods, nations, money, and human rights. The book also examines the impact of human activities on the global ecosystem and speculates on the future of humanity, including the potential for genetic engineering and non-organic life.

In 'Going Infinite', Michael Lewis delves into the life of Sam Bankman-Fried, the enigmatic founder of the failed cryptocurrency exchange FTX. The book provides a psychological portrait and a financial roller-coaster ride, tracing Bankman-Fried's trajectory from becoming the world's youngest billionaire to his eventual downfall. It covers topics such as high-frequency trading, cryptocurrencies, effective altruism, and the justice system. Despite criticism for its sympathetic portrayal of Bankman-Fried, the book offers a fascinating insight into the complex world of cryptocurrencies and the character of its central figure.

Robert Wright's "Non-Zero" explores the concept of non-zero-sum games in history and evolution. It argues that cooperation and increasing complexity have been driving forces throughout history, leading to progress and societal advancement. The book examines various aspects of human history and evolution, highlighting the role of cooperation and competition in shaping our world. Wright uses game theory and evolutionary principles to explain how cooperation can lead to mutual benefit and progress. The book challenges traditional views of conflict and competition, suggesting that cooperation is often a more effective strategy for achieving long-term success. It offers a unique perspective on the trajectory of human civilization and the potential for future progress.