Notes from the Holocene

A Brief History of the Future

WARNING: This book contains wild speculations:
READ AT YOUR OWN RISK*

*This statement has not been verified by the FDA, MDA, USDA, APA, DEA, GSA, CIA, NSA, AA, AAA, or AAAA

In a thought-provoking, humorous, and engaging style, Dorion Sagan combines philosophy, science, and an understanding of illusion to probe the deep questions of existence.

Operating on the precept that the universe is far weirder than we might imagine, Sagan—son of acclaimed scientists Carl Sagan and Lynn Margulis—uses his knowledge of philosophy, science, sleight-of-hand magic, and the fantastical writings of Philip K. Dick to explore some of the deepest questions we face on Earth. He provides fresh insights as to why we are here, the nature of technology, the prognosis for humanity, the living nature of our planet, and a reasoned explanation to why our universe is probably just one of an infinite number.

Sagan also provides answers to twelve pressing questions:

• Why does life exist?
• Why do we drink water?
• Can we save the Earth from global warming?
• Are human beings central and special?
• Is it possible that we've arisen by pure chance?
• Is the Earth an organism?
• Are we part of its exo-brain?
• If it is alive, can it reproduce?
• Can the universe?
• What does the future hold in store for us?
• Does God exist? What is the nature of ultimate reality?

Notes from the Holocene is a prime example of the writing coming from a new generation of scientific writers. It will inspire readers to think for themselves while leaving them chuckling with tongue-in-cheek anecdotes—a rare combination that Sagan delivers with ease. And yes, as geneticist J.B.S. Haldane says, “the universe is not only stranger than we imagine, but stranger than we can imagine.”

Interviews with the Author

About the Author

Writer, editor, and sleight-of-hand artist Dorion Sagan’s articles have appeared in Wired, The New York Times, The New York Times Book Review, Natural History, The Sciences, Pabular, Cabinet, and other magazines. His books include What is Life, Origins of Sex, and Into the Cool.