Book Description
This profound and accessible book details how science is studying nature's best ideas to solve our toughest 21st–century problems.
If chaos theory transformed our view of the universe, biomimicry is transforming our life on Earth. Biomimicry is innovation inspired by nature – taking advantage of evolution's 3.8 billion years of R\'9126D since the first bacteria. Biomimics study nature's best ideas: photosynthesis, brain power, and shells – and adapt them for human use. They are revolutionising how we invent, compute, heal ourselves, harness energy, repair the environment, and feed the world.
Science writer and lecturer Janine Benyus names and explains this phenomenon. She takes us into the lab and out in the field with cutting–edge researchers as they stir vats of proteins to unleash their computing power; analyse how electrons zipping around a leaf cell convert sunlight into fuel in trillionths of a second; discover miracle drugs by watching what chimps eat when theyᱥ sick; study the hardy prairie as a model for low–maintenance agriculture; and more.
Customer Reviews:
Never really used it........2007-09-27
I had no need for it in my class so I did not use it.
Poorly written.......2007-06-30
Interesting topic, but very poorly written. Many of her explanations are oversimplified, and there's a lot of unnecessary details about things like scientists' office decorations. Also, by now, about half of the book is out of date. Especially the chapter on biological computing, which was very confusing to start with. Also, there was a surprising lack of citations, significantly diminishing the value of the book.
I felt that this book was more about choice interviews with the few scientists she was able to get a hold of.
Given that, I did enjoy the chapter on Wes Jackson's work.
Biomimicry is Very Good, Very Detailed.......2007-06-19
As other reviewers have pointed out, Biomimicry is a good to great book, but the level of detail is enough to make a non-scientist's head spin. Be prepared for in-depth discussions on cellular activity, computer theory, and energy transfer. The main point of the book is excellent, which is that as a human race, we will eventually have to start acting like the rest of the living world and only use what we have in a sustainable manner. Physically, our path of using more energy than the world can generate is simply not sustainable for long. The book is not one of those alarmist environmental-destruction-is-imminent books however, it actually has good ideas on directions to take for sustainable manufacturing and sustainable energy.
Insightful, inspiring.......2007-03-09
Thoroughly enjoyed the refreshing perspective and the paradigm shifting philosophies of how human approaches science. Provides clarity of where things went wrong and how it can be rectified. Brilliant
New Revolution?.......2005-11-27
This book is a really good read for anyone interested in technological partial solutions for modern environmental issues. Many great examples of processes which have been innovated, and what could be done.
My only issue with this book is that you have to have a strong knowledge of many sciences to fully understand this piece. This may be a good thing if you are looking for something very specific; but it will be definately too much for the average person.
Book Description
A fractal is a complex geometric figure made up of patterns that repeat themselves at smaller and smaller, or larger and larger, scales. In nature, they're found in fern leafs and corals. In this book, they're found in the pattern for a scarf, the cables of a pullover, and the intricate hemline of a skirt. The pentagon is a familiar five-sided figure that, in nature, can be spotted in the starfish or sand dollar; in this book it's spotted in the yoke of a pullover, the textures of a cardigan, and the shape of a shawl. In nature, water waves and chemical waves abound; in this book, they flow as the patterns in a hat and mittens and in the gores of a skirt.
Knitting Nature is a singular book created by one of the most innovative and respected designers working today. Norah Gaughan, who got her degree from Brown in both biology and art, has combined her knowledge to compile this book of 39 fabulous designs inspired by patterns in nature. With each design, Gaughan first explains where in nature the pattern can be found, such as the spiral in a ram's horn or seashell; then with step-by-step instructions she shows how she rendered that pattern in a skirt or tunic or coat. Complete with exquisitely beautiful photographs, this sophisticated book is truly one of a kind.
Customer Reviews:
stunning and original.......2007-10-01
I waited quite some time to buy this book after it was published, and finally purchased it after reading so many positive reviews. I wasn't disappointed.
Norah Gaughan is one of the most original and creative knitwear designers around, and this book is a great showcase for her patterns. The inspiration for the patterns come from the shapes found in nature and accordingly the book is divided into sections focusing on Hexagons, Pentagons, Spirals, Phyllotaxis, Fractals, and Waves.
Each chapter begins with an introduction to the geometrical patterns that follow, and this provides a fascinating insight for anyone interested in the mathematics found in nature. It's refreshing to read a knitting book that is insightful, delving deeper than just a list of patterns.
The patterns in the book are clearly 'inspired by patterns in nature', and the shapes found in the natural world are often merely a jumping off point, as these shapes are then woven in to wearable knitwear designs. All of the patterns are original and inspiring, and *mostly* very wearable. Some of the patterns may not suit everyone, such as those with mid-riff bearing shapes, but don't be afraid to check the internet for wonderful versions that other knitters have made. The best thing about knitting items yourself is the ability to modify patterns to suit yourself.
As other reviewers have said, this book is beautifully presented, and the photography is stunning. Although I haven't knit any of the patterns yet, I often find myself pulling the book off the shelf just to flick through the pages. I'm sure this book will set the standard for knitting books in the future.
I would recommend this book for any intermediate to advanced knitter who is looking for some inspirational ideas. However, as others have said, be sure to check for the online errata before starting on any of the patterns. It's well worth the purchase price.
Knitting Nature: 39 Designs Inspired by Patterns in Nature.......2007-10-01
Very modern designs. These designs are inspiring to more experienced knitters,encouraging to new knitters. Well written book.
Stunning and fabulous with two little 'buts'.......2007-09-07
I will start with the 'buts'. The lack of metric measurements is a torture for a continental European. I also gather from the reviews that there are some mistakes in the patterns, which would be bad enough in another book, but in this one it's a real shame. Luckily enough, both problems can be easily solved with the use of a calculator and the Internet.
Having said that: I love this book and a few of the designs are so beautiful they made me speechless. Some of them far to eccentric for me to wear, but the Vortex pullover alone would be worth the money.
The book is beautifully designed and I find the patterns clear. Some may argue the photos are strange - some of them are indeed - but they are one of the things that makes the book different. Each project is preceded with a short explanation on how it refers to nature and the explanations make great reading.
One more thing: the book is for advanced knitters. The patterns are extremely challenging. Even so, less experienced knitters may want to consider buying this book to encourage them to learn more.
Lovely!.......2007-06-13
This is not just another pattern book. These are lovely designs that are inspiring. Knit on!
Gaughan is the best thing going!.......2007-06-08
I hesitated to buy this book, because of all the complaining about errors. But the fact is, Norah Gaughan is one of the freshest and most intriguing knitwear designers out there. I find myself attracted to her designs everywhere I see them - so it was worth it to me to put up with perhaps some less-than-perfect editing to get this kind of originality and inspiration.
Amazon.com
"I want to dazzle the viewer," declares Jane Sassaman, "to snap them out of a mundane routine, and remind them that they are a part of a bigger 'cosmic picture.'" Drawing on the soul-satisfying power of nature, she creates gorgeous quilt art filled with sinuous organic forms splashed with vivid color, often grounded dramatically against black. And dazzle she does, not merely through the multitude of exquisite quilts showcased here, but also through her discussions of what inspires her and through exercises that demonstrate what others can do to find and maintain inspiration at home and in the garden, from establishing a creative workspace to understanding various elements of design, even learning new ways of seeing. Quilters aren't the only ones who can benefit from Sassaman's wisdom; artists in other mediums can learn much from her, too. --Amy Handy
Book Description
Bold designs that celebrate the energy and mystery of nature are spread across the pages of this beautiful book that is bound to stimulate quilters of all levels to new creative heights in their work. Exercises teach crafters how to nurture their designs, sharpen their powers of observation, and capture the animation of a random field or garden. Sixty superb, nature-inspired quilts are shown, and the author walks readers through two projects using raw-edge or turned-edge appliqu and surface embroidery.
Customer Reviews:
Unable to rate product I have not received.......2007-01-11
I placed this order in October, and I have not received it as of January 11th.
Check back later perhaps.
Are you ready to create? I am!.......2003-09-29
Wow! I had read an article in American Patchwork Magazine about Jane Sassaman and decided to check out her book. After reading the great reviews on line at Amazon I decided that I needed to buy this book! After anxiously waiting for the book, I jumped into it and read it the first day I received it! What a whirlwind of color, creativity, design, arrangement, and textiles!
If you're looking for a book to use patterns designed by the author or if you lack creativity or imagination then this book is NOT for you! On the other hand if you're looking for a book that will set you're mind free of many of the constaints that other quilting books offer than this book is definitely for you! This book shows the growth and development of Sassaman as an artist and quilter. Her path to the beautiful quilt designs she's discovered has taken her 20 years. With the insights in this book and a little practice you can be designing quilts similar in intensity. With this book, Sassaman shares with us her techniques for applique and her ability to step outside of the 'traditional quilt design box' and to make your own rules! Sassaman is a fearless quilter!
I cannot wait to start making a quilt with the creative guidance found in this book!
Inspirations for applique.......2002-12-12
This book is more of a quilter's history, detailing how Jane Sassaman gradually evolved her style of quilting. Her work is amazing and I love looking at the detailed pictures of her quilts. The book contains "workshops" on a couple of her techniques, but no patterns for specific projects. Also, her quilts are "art quilts" as opposed to quilts for bed use, and so some of her techniques are a bit unconventional (i.e. fabrics used). This was a fun read, but requires you to create your own quilt designs, rather than making a replica of Jane's quilts.
Her designs and attitude will stretch your imagination.......2002-01-13
I bought this book fully aware that Jane's graphic style is completely different from my tendency to favor realistic applique or gentle color washes. I wanted to expand my vision, and this incredible book is everything I hoped for. Unlike some quilt books that focus on a technique and others that focus on the development of a quilt artist over time, this book tackles both.
Jane shares her background, introduction to quilting as an artistic medium, her struggles along the way, and the progression of her style, presented both in words and in pictures of her quilts over the years.
The last 40% of the book shows you how find your inpirational material, say a dandelion leaf or iris flower, and work with it to identify its signature characteristics.
Using two quilts, Jane shows her two approaches, providing plenty of detail. I'm working with the image of a Christmas cactus (I bought this book during the holiday season). I can tell that it's going to take a while before I get the design to the point where it pleases me enough to start buying fabric and sewing, but it's an enjoyable challenge. I look forward to producing something completely different from anything I've ever done or thought of doing.
Even if someone never intended to make a quilt like Jane's, reading this book and studying the pictures is an incredible education. The intense power that leaps from her designs is a challenge to every artist to put more life into every work of art. This is a book I will read many times, marveling at what this woman has created.
Recommended by the accidental quilter.......2001-12-15
Wow! Jane Sassaman is a fiber artist in the zone. The color plates of her quilts are both awesome and inspiring. Her designs are inspired from nature and from historical designs. I particularly like the way she has taken the tree of life design and gone wild with it in "Willow" and several smaller studies.
There are some practical chapters in this book which should inspire and help quilters that are intrigued by the art quilt, but are not sure how to get started. (How to gather ideas and keep a sketch book, how to simplify designs for fibre construction, stylizing, adding depth and interest.) There is also a section where she explores machine embroidery with the quilting process. I love machine embroidery and I'm always looking for artistic ways to blend it with my quilting.
If you are a serious artist, collect this book so you can see what Jane is doing. If you're currently working in the zone--you are going to see some of these visions there.
If you are a beginning or intermediate quilter and are willing to
read and look at this book from cover to cover--it may influence your work when you get to the point you need to use design and color in innovative ways. Definitely a quilter's quilter book, but worth every minute you spend between its covers.
Customer Reviews:
Great little cookbook.......1997-09-29
This is a brief, but great little cookbook. Everything I've tried, I've loved. The flatbread with tomato salad has been a huge hit every time I've made it.
Product Description
This lavishly photo-filled volume demonstrates that having an aquarium to be proud of means much more than keeping fish in a glass tank. The aquarium enthusiast who takes his hobby seriously reproduces a part of the aquatic natural environment in miniature inside his home. Author Peter Hiscock offers practical instructions on setting up a freshwater tropical aquarium. He describes substrate, aquarium plants, and appropriate combinations of fish. Much of this book focuses on fish and plant life in nature, and then offers details on replicating natural settings that are to be found in many different parts of the world. This lavish volume?s main sections discuss the following topics: Setting up an Aquarium: A practical introduction to the process of assembling a freshwater tropical aquarium with descriptions of all needed materials, from substrate to filters. Choosing and Using Aquarium Plants: A detailed review of aquarium plants and how to use them effectively in a freshwater tropical aquarium. How Fishes Live: A look at the lifestyles and physiology of freshwater tropical fish. This chapter serves as a foundation for the book?s main section , which follows. A World Tour in Your Aquarium: This major section of the book offers readers a tour of the world?s freshwater habitats as they exist in different parts of the world. It describes methods to set up an aquarium that recreates the atmosphere and fish life of each location, including a mountain stream of fast-flowing water, a mangrove swamp, a flooded Amazon forest, a Southeast Asian swamp, and several others. Both plants and fish varieties are shown in vivid color photos and described in detail. More than 450 color photos and illustrations. Hardcover w/ jacket / 208 Pages / 8 1/2 x 10 / 2003
Customer Reviews:
Excellent Resource.......2007-09-13
Outstanding book. It helped me visualize the design and layout of my aquarium. An excellent resource for beginners or pros.
More pecific for certain bio types.......2007-06-02
This book give you more of an idear of setting up aquariums for specific bio types or areas with certain fish and plants. Very good if you want to set up and aquarium with plants and fish and dont quite know where to start and what to do. Even for experienced people you still can learn somthing form this book. Not a stand alone book but partnered with a couple of others is a very good referance .
Beginer's aquarium book only!.......2005-11-15
Is java fern found in an Australian river, I don't think so. This book is not accurate!
All of the aquarium displays are not even mature, probably because most of the plants would be quite unhealthy by the time the display is mature enough to photograph, very unprofessional!
Another example: there are no mangroves in the mangrove swamp design, Hygrophila corymbosa was used instead with the author stating it is a good substitute for mangroves, what the, right up until the brackish water kills it! What's almost as worse is that the heater is not even hidden in the aquarium background.
Lovely book! .......2005-09-16
As an experienced fishkeeper, I can't say I learned a lot from this book. However, I think it is an excellent overall reference for hobbyists above a beginner's level. The pictures are just gorgeous! Each of the 200 pages has at least one or two photos. You will definitely be inspired! The biotopte profiles are in-depth enough, but I feel Hiscock could have better explained how to actually assemble some of the tank features--namely the Chinese Stream waterfall. Although some of the plant types listed do not always "go" with the specified biotope, the finished product looks great and could be easily modified for the purists out there. The only complaint I have is that most of the designs are intended for large tanks. I think you could probably scale down some of the designs, but they might not have the same impact. Regardless, this is a great book for the money!
Somewhat disappointing.......2005-06-09
Given the glowing reviews I read on this site, I was somewhat disappointed with the book when it finally arrived. The general information is fine, as far as it goes, if on a rather basic level. I guess what annoyed me most was that the author makes only a half-hearted effort to use plants indigenous to the various biotopes he describes--for example, Anubias, an African genus, finds its way into the Amazon acid pool. Also, the lists of appropriate fishes are fairly sketchy. And maybe I'm alone in this, but I found it odd that none of the finished biotope aquaria are photographed with fish in them!
What I was hoping for was information on a par with that provided on the Italian website www.natureaquarium.it; this book, while pleasant enough, doesn't begin to reach that level of sophistication or specificity.
Book Description
In this wonderful exploration of the American Landscape, 17 distinguished writers and photographers create a vivid, perceptive portrait of our nation's natural beauty. Highlighted by 120 breathtaking images and featuring thoughtful, evocative prose by award-winning authors, Heart of a Nation ranges from Vermont to Alaska, from the Appalachian foothills to the lofty peaks of the Sierra, from the still ponds of our southeastern wetlands to the stormy shores of the Pacific Northwest. It's a magnificent portrait of our majestic land -- and a journey of discovery no reader will ever forget.
Customer Reviews:
Inspirational.......2000-10-20
Photography has always been an outlet to certain visionaries in our society. Giving them a way to express to others the way they interpret somewhat ordinary and sometimes not so ordinary sights. This collection of images inspires all those who look at them. And then combining these with words of inspiratin and thought provoking prose makes it a treat to the soul as well as the eyes.
Book Description
PLEASE NOTE: This book is scheduled to ship in March. By purchasing it now, you are PRE-ORDERING this book. Your book will ship by March 20th. THANK YOU!
As a "voice for the voiceless," Jim Willis touches human hearts as deftly as he bonds with the animals he rescues. His writings have inspired animal lovers around the world in over a dozen languages. Now, with publication of his collected writings in the USA and the UK, the Author has made a generous arrangement with the publishers that can benefit the fundraising efforts of all animal rescue, conservation and environmental groups.
In Pieces of My Heart - Writings Inspired by Animals and Nature the author paints an emotional rainbow with a palette akin to Thoreau, Khalil Gibran, James Thurber, Chief Seattle, and James Herriot. Pieces of My Heart encompasses favorites such as "We Are Their Heroes," "How Could You?," "The Basset Chronicles," and "The Zen of Cat," as well as a treasure-trove of new writings. Included is an Appendix of suggestions and resources for helping animals; and a Foreword by Dr. Marc Bekoff, author of Minding Animals: Awareness, Emotions, and Heart and co-founder with Dr. Jane Goodall of Ethologists for the Ethical Treatment of Animals/Citizens for Responsible Animal Behavior Studies. Illustrated by Christine J. Head. (Softcover, 312 pages.)
Pieces of My Heart is a soulful, heartfelt tribute to animals and a plea for compassion. As you immerse yourself in its truths you'll reach for the nearest animal to hug, you'll smile through tears, and you'll feel the urge to run barefoot in the grass.
Customer Reviews:
Outstanding humanitarian .......2007-08-09
The spiritual nature of these "beasts" comes through in each poem and story and essay. I found them each and every one to be powerful. They encourage me when I feel too run down to continue my little rescue efforts.
This is from a man who practices what he preaches. Not only does he advocate on behalf of all homeless and abused pets,he also takes care of many of the ones no one else wants. Animals ask only for a safe place to rest, some clean water and decent food. Jim Willis reminds us that each of us can make the world a brighter, kinder place.
Pender County Resident.......2007-08-09
First of all I would like to say that I love this book. It is so heart touching. Second of all in reponse to Kat Lady. I am a former resident of Pender county. Pender County NC is a rural area and the mentality that many, many people in this area have towards animals is heartbreaking and unforgivable. I would be wiling to bet that those dogs that Mr. Willis took were probably being neglected and/or mistreated. The laws of this area often fail the animals and many die waiting for reports of animal abuse/neglect to be investigated or resolved. And not enough people in the area care enough to do any thing about it. Mr Willis taking those dogs may have the best thing that had ever or would ever happen to those dogs. I admittedly don't know the whole story, but I do know how many dogs in that area are treated-- kept chained their entire lives in the humid and severe NC heat without adequate provisions. So why not hold your judgement?
INDICTED FELONY COUNTS.......2007-08-06
Nationally recognized ARA author and animal
rights activist is nailed for theft.
This person was hailed by the NCVAW as a
wonderful person and a part of their crowd.
Goes to show you what they are made of. Goes
to show you what these fanatics will do....
***NEWS: Author of the book "PIECES OF MY
HEART" and
essay "HOW COULD YOU", JIM WILLIS, INDICTED
ON TWO
FELONY COUNTS OF LARCENY OF DOG by Pender
County
Grand Jury***
The Pender County, NC Grand Jury returned two
true
bills to indict Jim Willis for Larceny of
Dogs on July
23, 2007.
Case No. 07-CRS-51009, State of North
Carolina vs.
James Charles Willis states:
"The jurors for the State upon their oath
present
that on or about the date of offense shown
and in the
county named above the Defendant named above
unlawfully, willfully and feloniously did
steal, take
and carry away a dog, a female white lab
sheep dog mix
with black spots with solid black right ear
and black
and white left ear, named 'Krissy', . . ."
Sources say this dog has not been recovered.
If you
have seen this dog or know of it's
whereabouts, please
contact the Pender County Sheriff's
Department at
(910)259-1212.
Some animal lovers have suggested boycotting
the sale
of Jim's book, 'Pieces of My Heart' and
removing his
poetry from their web sites until such time
as the dog
is recovered.
Case No. 07-CRS-051399, State of North
Carolina vs.
James Charles Willis states:
"The jurors for the State upon their oath
present that on or about the date of offense
shown and
in the county named above the Defendant named
above
unlawfully, willfully and feloniously did
steal, take
and carry away a dog, a male Dalmatian dog,
white in
color with black spots, named 'Damon', . . ."
Sources say this dog was recovered at the
home of
Robert Hoggard, of Wilmington, NC, where Mr.
Willis
has been a house guest since April.
In a separate action, Jim Willis was found
GUILTY of
HARASSING PHONE CALLS in the Pender County
Court on
July 26, 2007. Despite pleading not guilty,
Mr.
Willis was found GUILTY and was sentenced to
30 days
in jail (suspended), 24 months of
unsupervised
probation, was assessed $115.00 in court
costs and
received a fine of $570.00 in restitution. He
was
also ordered to have no contact with the
person he was
harassing and was ordered not to go on her
premises.
not what I thought.......2007-01-18
I'm only half way thru the book, as it lost my interest, I purchased it thinking that it was a story of a guy rescueing dogs, but as of yet, nothing, just poems, and short stories. not satisfied.
One of my favorites.......2007-01-10
I love this book. I bought copies as gifts for others. Anyone who has ever loved a pet will recognize the heartfelt thoughts of Jim. The essay "I Loved You Best" never fails to move me to tears, yet laughter also reigns supreme in these tales of the special bond between human and pet. That essay is one of my favorite pieces of writing of all time, and I'm a prolific reader and poetry lover. Jim's simple style and honest approach make for a wonderful and moving experience. If your heart has ever been touched by your own beloved pet, or by the throwaway unfortunates in our society, this book is a must.
Customer Reviews:
easily adapted to the bulky knitting machine. hmmm........2006-12-12
Two Sticks and a String? How about "110 Needles and an Intarsia Carriage"? It would be very simple to knit most of these basic shapes and designs on a bulky knitting machine with intarsia carriage. The great color combinations and striking pattern placements are what make these designs unique. Highly recommended to all owners of those workhorses of the knitting design industry, the Brother 230, 260, or even 270 knitters.
Not your average knitting book.......2004-01-27
There are some exceptionally creative shapes and designs in "Two Sticks and a String." If you are a moderately experienced knitter, you can be inspired by these patterns and even adapt the shapes to other designs of your own.
In particular, there is a "Bamboo Jacket",two vests (a flat Aran and a more traditional vest with colorwork) and a folded shawl that have shapes that are intriguing. While you may not like the color or texture or pattern, this is a matter of taste: I decided I liked this book for the creativity it shows, and it looks to be a useful reference.
Gorgeous.......2001-07-23
Do not be fooled by the (I think) unfortunate title of this book. The projects are neither folksy nor primitive. Rather, several are among the most sophisticated and challenging I have ever seen. Gorgeous collection for the experienced knitter.
Diverse styles that challenge.......2000-09-22
This book is not for the novice knitter. The patterns vary from Aran to Novelty. I have read the various critiques of this book and I feel that it has been unfairly rated. It would be great if all patterns were written perfectly yet this is not a perfect world. The biggest mistake that knitters make is that they do not check their gauge when substituting yarn choices. The pictures and graphs are excellent in this book and it has far outranked many of the knitting publications of the last two years. If you want some patterns which are left of the classic mainstream, order this fabulous paperback!
This Is Not Your Mother's Knit Book.......2000-01-10
Rare is the time when one finds so many great designs at once that I can barely wait to try my hand at half of them on first sight! "Two Strings and a Stick" is just such a treasure. It's an inspiration for the intermediate to advance knitter who is looking for fun and unusual contemporary knit designs. I am especially impressed by the timeless but cutting edge quality of the items....appropriate for a fifty something like myself as well as a younger woman.
If the patterns are inaccurate, as indicated by the review above...I will happily make the changes just so that I can be seen in these gorgeous sweaters! The only down side with this book (as well as most other knit books) is that the patterns are not indicated for those of us who like to knit in the round from the top down...otherwise..it's a keeper...as in...get me to a yarn shop ASAP!
Book Description
Pulse is not about dance music, not about heart rates—and not about electromagnetic fields. What it does describe is a sea change in human affairs, a vast and fundamental shift that is about to transform every aspect of our lives. Written in lively prose for lay readers, Pulse shows how ideas that have shaped Western science, industry, and culture for centuries are being displaced by the rapid and dramatic rise of a “new biology”—by human systems and machines that work like living things.
In Pulse, Robert Frenay details the coming world of
• emotional computers
• ships that swim like fish
• hard, soft, and wet artificial life
• money that mimics the energy flows in nature
• evolution at warp speed
And these are not blue-sky dreams. By using hundreds of vivid and concrete examples of cutting-edge work, Frenay showcases the brilliant innovations and often colorful personalities now giving birth to a radical new future. Along the way, he also offers thoughtful conclusions on the promises—and dangers—of our transformation to the next great phase of “human cultural evolution.”
Customer Reviews:
Futurist speculation based on the metaphors of ecosystems and the human brain.......2007-07-06
This sprawling and fascinating book explores biology, technology, agriculture, neurology and economics, among other disciplines. It contends that systems and ways of thinking based on the machine age must and will change in light of new discoveries in biology. Robert Frenay provides prodigious research and some impressive reporting. One caveat: His discussion of economics and the monetary system seems to be based on somewhat arguable information about the workings of the Federal Reserve and the Eurodollar market. The author's passion for the subject of biology is clear, and we find that much of what he says is interesting. The book is not so much a narrative as a catalogue of facts, experiments and initiatives in various fields, with an accompanying argument against today's corporations and monetary systems that will challenge executives and economists.
a good tech reviewer with a zealot's politics.......2007-05-08
Frenay is an excellent writer when it comes to his coverage of technology and his linking of the philosophy behind complexity to other fields, but he takes a polemic view of politics devoting nearly 300 pages to far leftist rhetoric that isn't popular even in Europe. This book would have been better marketed as a treatise on politics and also Frenay would have been better recommending the anti-wto, anti-corporate, media which he heavily qoutes from than trying to summarize and paraphrase it. The first 150 pages are nice and some of the better tech reporting I can think of, the rest is interspersed with good ideas, but depicted in skewed arguements with few accurate summaries of the opposition and often a looping repetitive prose that seems more like an attempt of the author to convince himself of the validity of his views than a proper arguement. Frenay quite rightly notes the WTO's rules are universal and including human and environmental rights would mean everyone would be on the same playing field and the world shouldering environmental and moral costs they'd probably be more than happy to pay also seems like a good idea along with many of Frenay's numerous political points, however he then goes on to espouse Europe as a norm to emulate and while Europe has high GDPs and Denmark is very environmental, it's important to remember many of the problems Frenay is rallying against affect European business and society too, while most American businesses obey UN human rights charters for instance, Ikea has refuysed all human rights inspections, etc. It's not a balanced arguement, but it catches many of the world's major problems quite easily.
Doesn't know what he's talking about.......2007-03-27
Although this book does explain some things well in basic terms there is a serious problem in that the author doesn't know what he's talking about. I found his basic wrap-up of AI worthwhile because it's a subject that no one seems to be able to explain, but when he tries to do details he's plain wrong. He spends a lot of time on parallel computers which he calls pdp and he bunches in with AI and neural nets. Most parallel computing is simply dividing up large problems into identical smaller problems which is not AI. He gives all sorts of examples of systems that use parallel computers but most of them are not AI either. Neural nets in terms of computing are math rather than biology.
inspiring & thorough, so far.......2007-01-10
more exhaustive and more exciting read than any book on the subject of biology and complexity. esp, it can play a role of a guide for those who are seriously interested in those subjects. also, it shed an insight on what'll be the next new tool for advancing the knowledge in a variety of academic disciplines.
A type of 'new biology' in which human systems and machines meld to form new possibilities.......2006-06-17
Can genes challenge machines? Author Robert Frenay is a former contributing editor of Audubon magazine and in PULSE: THE COMING OF AGE OF SYSTEMS AND MACHINES INSPIRED BY LIVING THINGS, he charts the shift from machines to biology bolstered by computers: a type of 'new biology' in which human systems and machines meld to form new possibilities. From robotics to materials science he considers industrial ecosystems in which waste products from manufacturing become the new materials for another endeavor, considering the changing relationships between mechanism and biology in the process. Supporting these observations and contentions is a history of such relationships and their changes, areas in which biology can be seen at work, interviews with scientists and researchers, and observations of mechanisms actually produced which support his positive visions of future industrial endeavors. His single idea comes from a researcher's perspective and reflects on the cultural philosophy and pressures shaping technological change.
Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch
Books:
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Biotechnology
| Biological Sciences
| Science
| Subjects
| Books
Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things
Natural Capitalism: Creating the Next Industrial Revolution
The Ecology of Commerce
The Sustainability Revolution: Portrait Of A Paradigm Shift
Mid-Course Correction: Toward a Sustainable Enterprise: The Interface Model
