Man from the Future

The Visionary Life of John Von Neumann

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Ananyo Bhattacharya: Man from the Future (2021, Penguin Books, Limited)

English language

Published Feb. 28, 2021 by Penguin Books, Limited.

ISBN:
978-0-241-39887-6
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4 stars (12 reviews)

6 editions

Somewhat repetive book, but still interesting

3 stars

The style is quite average, no comparison to "The Family That Could Not Sleep". The best sentences were quotes by or about Von Neumann. The book is structured around the accomplishments of Von Neumann and mostly about the ideas themselves, less so about Von Neumann, or the real world consequences of his ideas.

Von Neumann was an extraordinary mind. To everyone interested in mathematics and computer science, I would recommend the book.

Review of "The Man from the Future" by Ananyo Bhattacharya

5 stars

The fascinating life of John von Neumann, as told through his direct impact on the foundations of mathematics, quantum mechanics, the atomic bomb, game theory, the invention of the computer, and the early theory of artificial intelligence. Von Neumann was at once a timeless genius and a product of his time, driven both by the power of pure logic and his life experiences in pre-war Europe, and his impact on the narrative of his time through his scientific work and his influence on American military policy is remarkable. As with many stories of genius, the book downplays von Neumann's personal shortcomings, which seem a stark contrast to his brilliance in understanding the nature of science and society. But it is a great read and a fascinating story of science, history, and a truly unique figure.

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