Paul Graham

Having penned hundreds of letters to his family over four decades, Freeman Dyson has framed them with the reflections made by a man now in his nineties. While maintaining that “the letters record the daily life of an ordinary scientist doing ordinary work,” Dyson nonetheless has worked with many of the twentieth century’s most renowned physicists, ...

In a dying Galactic Empire, only Hari Seldon can see the dark age ahead. To preserve knowledge and humanity, he gathers the best minds on a bleak planet to create the Foundation. But they are soon at the mercy of corrupt warlords, facing an agonizing choice between submission or destruction.

This classic work provides a comprehensive account of medieval Europe, making it an essential resource for undergraduate and 'A' level students. The third edition is updated with the latest research and diverse viewpoints, with each original chapter concluding with a 'new directions and developments' section by an expert in the field. Perfect for both those new to medieval history and those seeking to specialize in the subject.

Discover the shocking truth about how the Old Masters created their masterpieces in Secret Knowledge. Artist David Hockney's extensive research reveals that hyperrealists like Caravaggio and da Vinci actually used optics and lenses to achieve their highly detailed paintings. Hockney's passionate and straightforward analysis is accompanied by hundreds of reproductions of famous works, along with his own photographs and drawings. Experience a mind-bending journey of discovery that will forever change the way you view art and the world around you.

Explore the causes of one of the bloodiest conflicts of the 20th century with a classic of modern history. Controversial for its thesis that Hitler had no thorough plan, this extensive examination of international politics and foreign policy is a groundbreaking work by influential British historian A.J.P. Taylor. With clear, relatable prose, Taylor depicts the diplomatic mistakes from both the Allied and Axis powers that led to the outbreak of World War II. Discover why The Observer called The Origins of the Second World War "an almost faultless masterpiece."

Experience a thrilling journey through the history of hedge funds, from their beginnings in the 1960s to their critical role in the 2007-2009 financial crisis. Powerful, wealthy, and potentially dangerous, the hedge fund industry has cracked the mysteries of beating the market and earned fortunes in the process. Discover the inside story of this fascinating corner of capitalism, complete with larger-than-life characters and dramatic tales, in a definitive history written by esteemed financial writer Sebastian Mallaby.

This book explores why the Industrial Revolution happened in Britain and not elsewhere in Europe or Asia. Author Robert C. Allen argues that it was a response to the global economy of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. With high wages and cheap energy, the breakthrough technologies of the revolution were uniquely profitable to invent and use in Britain. As the cost of these technologies decreased in the 19th century, industrialization spread around the world.

Discover the key ingredients for success in mathematics with this fascinating addition to the world of math culture. Written in a personal, honest, and reflective way, this book delves into the essential qualities needed for a successful career in mathematics, including talent, single-mindedness, a sense of humor, and a deep love for the subject. Don't miss out on this insightful document for the history and sociology of science!

"Unravel the science behind the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our lives with this thought-provoking must-read for 2021. Apollo's Arrow presents a captivating analysis of the virus as it infiltrated American society in 2020 and the future implications of its aftermath. Author Nicholas A. Christakis expertly weaves in historical epidemics, contemporary research, and interdisciplinary insights to shed light on the collective experience of human existence during a time of plague. Discover how this pandemic has divided our society and also revealed opportunities for cooperation in a startlingly new way. With vivid examples and bold arguments, Apollo's Arrow offers a unique perspective on the intersection of science, medicine, genetics, data science, sociology, and epidemiology."

Discover the pivotal stage in the history of science between Galileo's astronomical findings and Newton's mathematical achievements. This book traces the revolution in physics during the century spanning 1630-1720, highlighting the work of Huygens, Leeuwenhoek, Boyle, Descartes, and others. With 35 illustrations, explore the transition that led to Newton's vastly influential contributions to science.