In 'How We Got to Now,' Steven Johnson reveals the hidden connections behind six crucial innovations that shaped the modern world. From glass to cold, he explores how seemingly unrelated developments have intertwined to create our contemporary landscape. This captivating narrative uncovers the ripple effects of ingenuity and the often-overlooked figures who drove progress. Johnson invites readers to consider how these innovations influence our lives today and what they might mean for the future. Prepare to see the past—and the present—through a new lens, challenging everything you thought you knew about innovation.
By Steven Johnson
Published: 2015
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Amanda Palmer is an American singer-songwriter, author, and performance artist, best known for her work as a solo artist and as part of the band The Dresden Dolls. Palmer is known for her theatrical performances, genre-blending music, and her strong connection with her fanbase. She has been a pioneer in crowdfunding, raising millions to fund her creative projects through platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon. Palmer is also the author of The Art of Asking, where she explores themes of vulnerability, creativity, and connection. Her work transcends traditional music, blending performance art, activism, and community engagement.
View CollectionNeil deGrasse Tyson is a renowned astrophysicist, author, and science communicator, best known for his work in popularizing science through various media. As the director of the Hayden Planetarium in New York City, he has played a pivotal role in bringing astronomical discoveries to the public. Tyson has authored several bestselling books, including "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry" and "The Pluto Files," which have made complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience. He is also the host of the popular science TV show "Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey," a continuation of Carl Sagan's groundbreaking series. Tyson's contributions have significantly enhanced public understanding and appreciation of the universe.
View CollectionChris Dixon is a notable venture capitalist and technology entrepreneur, best known for his influential role as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, where he leads investments in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Before joining the firm, Dixon co-founded two startups: SiteAdvisor, a web security company acquired by McAfee, and Hunch, a recommendation engine acquired by eBay. In addition to his investment career, Dixon is a prolific writer and thought leader on technology and innovation, contributing insightful essays and articles to various platforms such as his personal blog and Medium. His writings often explore the future of technology, the internet, and the impact of blockchain, making significant contributions to contemporary tech literature. Dixon's work has earned him recognition as a visionary in both the tech and literary worlds.
View CollectionBret Victor is a renowned American interface designer and computer scientist celebrated for his innovative contributions to interactive design and human-computer interaction. He is best known for creating dynamic, explorable explanations, which have significantly influenced the way educational content is presented and understood. Victor's seminal work, "Inventing on Principle," advocates for the integration of immediate feedback in creative processes, inspiring a new wave of interactive programming environments. As a former member of the Apple Human Interface team, he played a pivotal role in shaping modern user interfaces. Through his organization, Dynamicland, Victor continues to explore and expand the boundaries of immersive, collaborative computing environments.
View CollectionBryan Johnson is an American entrepreneur, investor, and futurist, best known for founding Braintree, a payments company that was acquired by PayPal, and Kernel, a company focused on developing brain-computer interfaces. Johnson is deeply interested in advancing human cognition and longevity through technological innovation. His work at Kernel seeks to better understand the brain and its potential to enhance human intelligence. He is also the founder of OS Fund, which invests in companies tackling complex, world-changing problems in areas like health and energy. Johnson is a strong advocate for using technology to extend human potential and reshape the future of humanity.
View CollectionBrian Earp is a distinguished ethicist and interdisciplinary researcher, renowned for his extensive work in medical ethics, philosophy, and psychology. He serves as the Associate Director of the Yale-Hastings Program in Ethics and Health Policy at Yale University. Earp has co-authored several influential books, including "Love Drugs: The Chemical Future of Relationships," which explores the ethical implications of using pharmaceuticals to enhance romantic relationships. His scholarly articles have been widely published in leading academic journals, making significant contributions to debates on bioethics, sexuality, and human enhancement. Earp is also recognized for his engaging public outreach, effectively bridging the gap between academic research and public discourse.
View CollectionCharlie Munger is an American investor, businessman, and philanthropist, best known as the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, where he partners with Warren Buffett. Renowned for his insights on investment strategies and mental models, Munger has significantly influenced the world of finance. His notable literary contributions include "Poor Charlie's Almanack," a compilation of his speeches and writings that distill his wisdom on decision-making and business principles. Munger's work emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary thinking and continuous learning. Beyond his financial acumen, he is celebrated for his charitable efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.
View CollectionChamath Palihapitiya is a prominent venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and the founder of Social Capital, a firm that aims to advance humanity by solving complex societal problems. Although primarily known for his investments in companies like Slack and Box, Palihapitiya is also a vocal advocate for technology's role in societal improvement. He has contributed thought-provoking essays and articles on economic inequality, healthcare, and education reform, influencing public discourse and policy. His visionary ideas are often shared through platforms like Medium and various keynote speeches. Palihapitiya's multifaceted career underscores his commitment to leveraging technology for social good.
View CollectionSophie Bakalar is a distinguished author and venture capitalist known for her adept storytelling and insightful exploration of contemporary issues. Her debut novel received critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of complex characters and societal dynamics. In addition to her literary achievements, Bakalar is a co-founder of a successful venture firm, where she leverages her keen understanding of market trends and innovation. Her essays and articles, often featured in prominent publications, reflect her deep engagement with cultural and technological shifts. Bakalar's multifaceted career bridges the worlds of literature and entrepreneurship, making her a unique voice in both fields.
View CollectionAubrey Marcus is an influential entrepreneur, author, and podcaster, best known for founding Onnit, a health and wellness company dedicated to optimizing human performance. He authored the acclaimed book "Own the Day, Own Your Life," which offers practical advice on improving daily routines for overall well-being. Marcus's contributions to literature extend through his insightful podcasts and articles that delve into personal development, mental health, and holistic living. As a thought leader, he has inspired countless individuals to pursue a balanced and fulfilling life. His work continues to resonate with a global audience, promoting a message of self-empowerment and holistic health.
View CollectionRaoul Pal is a British economist, investment strategist, and co-founder of Real Vision, a financial media company that provides in-depth analysis of global markets and economies. Pal is known for his insights on macroeconomics, cryptocurrency, and investment trends, often sharing his expertise through interviews, reports, and documentaries. Before founding Real Vision, Pal worked at Goldman Sachs and managed a global macro hedge fund. He is a strong advocate for decentralized finance (DeFi) and frequently discusses the future of digital currencies and blockchain technology. His forward-thinking perspectives on finance have earned him a large following among investors and financial professionals.
View CollectionBrian Greene is an American theoretical physicist and author, best known for his work on string theory and popularizing science through his books and media appearances. Greene’s books, including The Elegant Universe and The Fabric of the Cosmos, have helped bring complex concepts in physics to a general audience. He is also the co-founder of the World Science Festival, which promotes public engagement with scientific topics. Greene’s research and ability to communicate scientific ideas have made him one of the most influential figures in theoretical physics. His work continues to inspire curiosity about the universe and our understanding of it.
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