Cryptonomicon Review
7:07
Ай бұрын
Should We Stop Eating Octopus?
5:13
Ubik
8:00
Ай бұрын
What If You Could Live Forever?
7:18
AI Space Invaders
4:38
2 ай бұрын
The Peter Principle
4:26
2 ай бұрын
What Came Before the Big Bang?
3:33
AI: The Future We Can't Control?
5:32
Did Asimov Predict Our Future?
6:56
Пікірлер
@pawibus
@pawibus 2 күн бұрын
Per Betteridge's Law, no.
@enonknives5449
@enonknives5449 4 күн бұрын
As a big fan of science fiction, I found A Fire Upon the Deep to be an incredibly stupid story. To each his own.
@2brecords885
@2brecords885 7 күн бұрын
ALL NATIONS MUST COME TOGETHER TO SAVE HUMANITY.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 4 күн бұрын
Your comment touches on a critical point about the future of humanity. Global collaboration is indeed essential, especially when addressing challenges like space exploration, climate change, and resource scarcity. By pooling resources, knowledge, and technology, nations can achieve far more together than individually. Space exploration, in particular, represents a unifying goal that transcends borders, offering humanity a chance to work toward a shared future. While geopolitical differences exist, initiatives like the International Space Station have shown that cooperation is possible-and crucial-for our survival and progress.
@steve354777
@steve354777 7 күн бұрын
If any such new energy source were discovered the fossil fuel industry would lobby furiously against it. With the help of think tanks, tge right-wing media and captured candidates and political parties, they’d likely as not kill it off.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 4 күн бұрын
@steve354777 That’s a powerful observation, and it ties right into the themes of *The Gods Themselves*. Asimov’s story explores humanity’s resistance to change and our tendency to prioritize short-term gains over long-term solutions. It’s not hard to imagine real-world parallels, as you’ve pointed out. The fossil fuel industry’s influence is definitely a modern-day example of how progress can be stifled by entrenched interests. Thanks for bringing that perspective to the conversation-it’s a thought-provoking take! 🚀📚✨
@richardcollier1912
@richardcollier1912 8 күн бұрын
He said that this novel would probably be the one for which he would be best remembered, regardless of what he himself thought about it.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 4 күн бұрын
@richardcollier1912 That’s such an interesting insight into Asimov’s perspective on his own work. It’s fascinating that he recognized the unique impact *The Gods Themselves* might have, even if it wasn’t necessarily his personal favorite. It speaks to how special and groundbreaking this novel is, especially with its exploration of alien life and moral dilemmas. Thanks for sharing that! 🚀📚✨
@gj1234567899999
@gj1234567899999 9 күн бұрын
Your description reminds me of how we weren’t allowed to question Pfizer Covid vaccines.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 4 күн бұрын
@gj1234567899999 Haha, that’s quite the leap-from Asimov’s alien physics to modern medical debates! If only we had a parallel universe to test all our theories in safely, right? Thanks for keeping things... interdimensional! 🚀📚✨
@geoffhoutman1557
@geoffhoutman1557 10 күн бұрын
The subs that can’t be turned off- are a turn off. This ain’t tiktok right?
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 4 күн бұрын
@geoffhoutman1557 Thanks for the feedback! I hear you on the subtitles-it’s definitely something I’m working on. I want to make sure the experience is enjoyable for everyone, so I’m experimenting with different formats. Appreciate you sharing your thoughts! 🚀📚✨
@PoeLemic
@PoeLemic 11 күн бұрын
Thanks for covering this book. Heard of it, but I really didn't know much about it. For me, I'm reading more now and staying home. Too expensive to go out much, so books are my pleasure.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 4 күн бұрын
@PoeLemic That sounds like a fantastic way to spend your time! Books are such a great escape and often much more rewarding than a pricey night out. Cat’s Cradle is definitely worth diving into-it’s one of those books that sticks with you long after you finish it. If you’re reading more these days, I’d love to hear what’s on your reading list! Maybe we can swap recommendations. Thanks for taking the time to comment, and happy reading! 📚✨
@ColonelFredPuntridge
@ColonelFredPuntridge 12 күн бұрын
My favorite Asimov is the short story “Pâté de Foie Gras”. The Department of Agriculture, in 1955, investigates a very special goose - one we have all heard about.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@ColonelFredPuntridge That’s such a fun pick! *Pâté de Foie Gras* is a brilliant example of Asimov’s lighter, more playful side while still packing that clever sci-fi twist he’s famous for. The way he weaves the story around that “special goose” is pure genius, making it memorable and uniquely entertaining. It’s great to see someone highlight one of his less-discussed gems-thanks for sharing! 🦢📚✨
@ColonelFredPuntridge
@ColonelFredPuntridge 12 күн бұрын
“…and no one will survive to know I was right!”
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@ColonelFredPuntridge What a line! That’s the kind of dramatic, chilling sentiment that sticks with you. It really captures the tension and stakes in stories like *The Gods Themselves*. Perfectly haunting-thanks for sharing it! 🚀📚✨
@mark.J6708
@mark.J6708 12 күн бұрын
Grew up reading Azimov and read this one so long ago, this is a great reminder, thx.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@mark.J6708 That’s awesome! Asimov’s works have a way of sticking with you, even years later. *The Gods Themselves* is definitely one worth revisiting-so many layers to appreciate. Glad the video could spark some nostalgia for you-thanks for watching! 🚀📚
@gkossatzgmxde
@gkossatzgmxde 12 күн бұрын
I have one word for you: CHINA
@stevejennette25
@stevejennette25 12 күн бұрын
Greg Baer is amazing, and Eon captivated me.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 4 күн бұрын
@stevejennette25, Greg Bear truly was an incredible writer, and it’s no surprise *Eon* had such an impact on you-it’s a captivating story with so much depth and imagination. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, and it’s always great to hear from fellow fans!
@altargull
@altargull 13 күн бұрын
I love the book!
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@altargull Same here! *The Gods Themselves* is such a fantastic read-glad to see another fan of it here! Thanks for sharing your love for the book! 🚀📚✨
@Agg1E91
@Agg1E91 13 күн бұрын
Cool! Thanks for the overview. I was unaware of the existence of this novel. I will certainly check it out.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@Agg1E91 You’re very welcome! *The Gods Themselves* is definitely one of Asimov’s standout works-packed with big ideas and unique alien concepts. Hope you enjoy diving into it, and thanks for checking out the video! 🚀📚
@life.esoteric
@life.esoteric 13 күн бұрын
Fantastic book, read it twice!
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@life.esoteric Absolutely! It’s one of those books that rewards a second read with even more to discover. Asimov really packed so much depth into *The Gods Themselves*. Thanks for sharing your enthusiasm for it! 🚀📚🙌
@pauldueffert2749
@pauldueffert2749 13 күн бұрын
It's been a few decades since I read it, and at least for me this video would have benefitted from a 3-4 minute story synopsis at the beginning.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@pauldueffert2749 Thanks for the feedback! A brief synopsis at the start could definitely help set the stage for viewers who haven’t read the book in a while-or at all. I’ll keep that in mind for future videos to strike a good balance between summarizing and keeping it spoiler-free. Appreciate your input, and thanks for watching! 🚀📚
@ashtonrouse5638
@ashtonrouse5638 14 күн бұрын
Great video. The soundtrack kept reminding me of Wendy Mathews' The Day You Went Away 😅
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@ashtonrouse5638 Thanks so much! And now I can’t unhear that comparison-what a great catch! Wendy Matthews’ *The Day You Went Away* definitely has that reflective, emotional vibe, so I can see how the soundtrack might evoke it. Glad you enjoyed the video! 😅🎵📚
@rundmw
@rundmw 14 күн бұрын
So pleased to see this novel getting the attention that, I feel, it deserves. So excellent!
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@rundmw Totally agree! *The Gods Themselves* is such a standout in Asimov’s work, and it’s fantastic to see it getting the love it deserves. Glad you enjoyed the video-thanks for sharing your enthusiasm! 🚀📚✨
@joaoklein1002
@joaoklein1002 14 күн бұрын
Ok: not only destroy it, but make sure they can't rebuild it.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@joaoklein1002 Haha, absolutely! That level of thoroughness would definitely fit the stakes in *The Gods Themselves*. It’s one thing to solve a problem, but making sure it doesn’t come back? Now that’s next-level thinking! Thanks for the comment! 🚀📚✨
@antrimlariot2386
@antrimlariot2386 15 күн бұрын
Prararell? Great graphics - pity about the atrocious spelling.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@antrimlariot2386 Thanks for catching that! Typos in captions can definitely slip through-I’ll get that fixed. Glad you enjoyed the graphics, though! Appreciate the heads-up and your understanding! 🚀📚✨
@j.p.4541
@j.p.4541 16 күн бұрын
Great review and well articulated. Thank you.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@j.p.4541 Thank you so much! I’m glad you enjoyed the review and found it well-articulated. Your feedback means a lot-thanks for watching! 🚀📚✨
@EloyRamirez
@EloyRamirez 16 күн бұрын
Sweet recap! Now I need to see if Quinn Ideas has also converted this series 🤣
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@EloyRamirez Thanks! Glad you enjoyed the recap! If Quinn Ideas ever covers this, it’ll definitely be fascinating to see their take-imagine the layers they could dive into! 🤣 Let us know if you find out! 🚀📚
@hdufort
@hdufort 16 күн бұрын
This book is a very good read and a metaphor on environmental damage. A recent novel explored similar themes, "Pattern Dreamer" by ZP de Franca.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@hdufort That’s a great observation! *The Gods Themselves* absolutely has those undertones about the consequences of exploiting resources without fully understanding the repercussions. Thanks for mentioning Pattern Dreamer-sounds like an intriguing recommendation for anyone interested in similar themes. I’ll have to check it out! 🚀📚🌍
@Asehpe
@Asehpe 17 күн бұрын
One of the interesting things about the Soft Ones is their way of having (tri-gendered) sex. It is, curiously, simultaneously non-human and also very intimate and human. And that, from an author famously not good at creating erotica or sex scenes. I was mesmerized by Dua and her partners, not only because, in a sense, they are -- Parental, Rational, and Emotional -- all 'good people' by their own standard, but also by how they love each other, physically and otherwise.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@Asehpe What a beautifully articulated comment! Asimov really outdid himself with the Soft Ones-they’re so profoundly alien yet surprisingly relatable in their emotions and relationships. The tri-gendered dynamic adds such a unique layer to their love and intimacy, making it feel both otherworldly and deeply human at the same time. Dua and her partners truly stand out as some of the most memorable characters in sci-fi. Thanks for sharing your thoughtful perspective! 🚀📚✨
@mmechrizma
@mmechrizma 17 күн бұрын
Or,if you've never dipped your toes in his universe but you love the abstract.....
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@mmechrizma That’s such a great way to describe Asimov’s appeal! If you’re into abstract, thought-provoking ideas, The Gods Themselves is the perfect introduction to his universe. It’s packed with big concepts and unique perspectives that will stick with you. Definitely worth dipping your toes in! 🚀📚✨
@guidopahlberg9413
@guidopahlberg9413 17 күн бұрын
Thanks for your reviews. I am really thrilled by your choice of books. What makes Eon so great it that the story transcends the original settings and ends in a way not to be expected at the beginning. Bear went on to write other remarkable works like Blood Music (and one of my secret favorites: Anvil of Stars), but he never managed to pull off this 'transcendence' trick again in quite the same way. Other books that I could recommend: We are Bob (1) by Dennis Taylor, Old Man's War by John Scalzi (for his original humor), some novel by Peter F. Hamilton (for his grand world building), Ender's Game, Destination Void by Frank Herbert (for his prophetic insight into AI and SGI in 1966)
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@guidopahlberg9413 Thanks for your thoughtful comment and recommendations! I completely agree about *Eon*-that sense of transcendence and unexpected evolution in the story is what makes it so special. It’s incredible when a book can shift your perspective so drastically by the end. *Blood Music* and *Anvil of Stars* are fantastic works in their own right, and I love seeing the connection you’ve made between them and Bear’s ability to push boundaries. The recommendations you’ve shared are excellent too-*We Are Bob*, *Old Man’s War*, *Ender’s Game*, and *Destination: Void* are all must-reads for any sci-fi fan. Thanks for bringing such rich insight and variety to the discussion! 🚀📚✨
@mikloscsuvar6097
@mikloscsuvar6097 18 күн бұрын
Which piano play is this? I listened to it many times in a vampire ASMR? Ahh yes. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZ_JZqOOe757pKcsi=sIjFYbx86fCp2mX5 @14:42 Mesmerize by Kevin MacLoud.
@johnPaul-qn3dg
@johnPaul-qn3dg 18 күн бұрын
My 'The Gods Themselves' story is an unusual one, at aged 17/18 I was working away from home for the first time doing renovation and spending nights in a cheap bitsit, at work I picked up this book among the rubble with no cover or title, just chapter 1 on the first page. On my lunch break. I started reading it and couldn't wait to read more, I found the tale utterly enthralling and loved it, for years, I never knew the author or title of one of the best books I've ever read. What I found particularly memorable was the unusual tender love story of the tri, and the doubts of each of the 'partners' each wanting the best for each other and how it all ends, "there's work to be done" I have always wondered why no one ever tried to adapt the tale to a movie. With CGI, it could be done now, and the moral dilemmas are a lot more contemporary.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@johnPaul-qn3dg What an incredible story! It’s amazing how *The Gods Themselves* found its way to you like that, even without a cover or title-almost as if it was meant to be. The relationship between the tri-gendered beings is such a standout part of the novel; Asimov really captured something tender and unique there. And you’re right-its moral dilemmas and imaginative world would be perfect for a modern adaptation. With today’s CGI, the Soft Ones and their universe could be brought to life beautifully. Let’s hope someone in Hollywood feels the same way! Thanks for sharing your memorable experience with the book. 🙌📖🎥
@bpalpha
@bpalpha 18 күн бұрын
Energy is free. Money is fake.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@bpalpha Definitely a bold statement! It’s hard to tell if it’s tied to The Gods Themselves or just a standalone comment, but it could loosely connect to the book’s theme of limitless energy and the consequences of exploiting it. Either way, it’s an interesting perspective! 🚀📚
@svarogbg
@svarogbg 18 күн бұрын
Stanislav Lem`s Fiasco was the most thought provoking for me.
@ColonelFredPuntridge
@ColonelFredPuntridge 12 күн бұрын
Definitely one of the great sci-fi books, by one of the great sci-fi authors
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@svarogbg *Fiasco* is an excellent choice-Lem’s exploration of miscommunication and the morality of first contact is so profound. It’s definitely one of those books that leaves you thinking long after you’ve finished. Lem and Asimov approach sci-fi so differently, but both are brilliant in their own ways. Thanks for sharing your pick-great addition to the discussion! 🚀📚✨
@ColonelFredPuntridge
@ColonelFredPuntridge 11 күн бұрын
@@gibsononbooksMay I recommend another thought-provoking book by an author you probably do not know? CELESTIAL MATTERS by Richard Garfinkle.
@heckzotica
@heckzotica 19 күн бұрын
I love Asimov. But 80 pages in and i fall asleep.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@heckzotica Haha, fair enough! Asimov’s style can definitely lean toward the cerebral, which isn’t always fast-paced. But if you push through, the ideas and twists are worth it-maybe treat it like a slow-burn sci-fi adventure! Thanks for sharing your honest experience! 🚀📚😴
@peterfmodel
@peterfmodel 20 күн бұрын
The Gods Themselves is a great novel, but has a rather painfully accurate truth built into it.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@peterfmodel Absolutely! *The Gods Themselves* doesn’t just deliver a fascinating story; it hits hard with its underlying truths about human nature, scientific ethics, and the consequences of our actions. Asimov’s ability to weave those uncomfortable realities into the narrative is part of what makes it so memorable-and maybe a little unsettling. It’s a great reminder of why sci-fi can be such a powerful lens for examining ourselves. Thanks for pointing that out!
@BryinWillis-e8g
@BryinWillis-e8g 20 күн бұрын
Friday
@BryinWillis-e8g
@BryinWillis-e8g 20 күн бұрын
Friday
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@BryinWillis-e8g A man of few words, I see! Care to elaborate? Are you referencing something related to The Gods Themselves or maybe just sharing your excitement for the upcoming Friday? 😄 Curious minds want to know! 🚀📚
@davidioanhedges
@davidioanhedges 21 күн бұрын
Asimov stated that the novel, especially the second section, was the "biggest and most effective over-my-head writing [that I] ever produced"
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@davidioanhedges That’s such a fascinating insight into Asimov’s perspective on his own work! The second section is definitely a standout-it’s ambitious, complex, and completely unlike anything else in his bibliography. It’s amazing that even Asimov himself felt like he was reaching beyond his usual limits. That effort really paid off, though; the second section remains one of the most memorable parts of the novel. Thanks for sharing that detail!
@weltraumaffe4155
@weltraumaffe4155 21 күн бұрын
The universes aren't parallel. The "alt-men" (soft ones) don't have genders though Asimov uses masc and fem pronouns due to the limitations of the English language. The three kinds of soft ones are in an embryonic state that grows into a single hard one.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@weltraumaffe4155 Great clarification! You’re absolutely right that the universes aren’t truly “parallel” in the strictest sense, and the Soft Ones’ triadic nature is much more nuanced than traditional gender concepts. Asimov’s use of gendered pronouns definitely reflects the challenges of conveying such an alien biology within the constraints of English. The transformation from Soft Ones into Hard Ones is such a fascinating idea-it really emphasizes how different their lifecycle and society are from anything human. Thanks for adding this deeper perspective!
@catchang8234
@catchang8234 22 күн бұрын
So glad someone else out there appreciate this book. I’m introducing my 12 year old to adult science fiction. For Asimov I’ve started her on some short stories in the Robot series & other notables like Nightfall. But instead of launching her directly into Foundation I’m trying her on more standalones like The End of Eternity and The Gods Themselves. Excellent subject matter & you got yourself a subscriber.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@catchang8234 That’s such an awesome way to introduce your 12-year-old to adult sci-fi! Starting with short stories like those in the Robot series is a brilliant choice-they’re accessible but still packed with Asimov’s trademark thought-provoking ideas. And transitioning to standalones like *The End of Eternity* and *The Gods Themselves* is perfect for giving her a taste of the bigger concepts Asimov is known for without overwhelming her with the sprawling complexity of *Foundation*. It’s so great to see someone passing down a love of sci-fi like this. Thanks for subscribing, and I hope she enjoys the journey into Asimov’s universe! 🚀📚
@WTH1812
@WTH1812 22 күн бұрын
If you're not familiar with Asimov's works, I suggest you start with "Nightfall and Other Stories", an insightful collection of short stories. For novels, the "Foundation" series is a great start. Asimov wrote short short stories 2 or 3 pages long like "A Stitch in Times", short stories like the disturbing "Eyes Do More Than See" which can be found in Science Fiction anthologies, novels like "I, Robot" (which is nothing like and better than the movie), and co-authored an excellent Sci Fi short story series "The Great SF Stories". Each book was the best stories of the year, starting with 1939, the true dawn of science fiction stories. Asimov also wrote good Mysteries (not included the rumored long novel, "Why Did I Buy This Book?") and books on Astronomy, General Science, and more.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@WTH1812 What a fantastic summary of Asimov’s range! Starting with *Nightfall and Other Stories* is such a great idea-it’s a brilliant showcase of his storytelling ability in bite-sized form. You’ve highlighted such a rich variety of his work, from the short short stories to *The Great SF Stories*, and even his mysteries and nonfiction. It’s amazing how versatile he was, isn’t it? And that “Why Did I Buy This Book?” line gave me a good laugh! Thanks for sharing such a comprehensive recommendation list-it’s a goldmine for anyone new to Asimov! 🚀📚✨
@StillLivinginthewoods
@StillLivinginthewoods 24 күн бұрын
I read this book years ago, but I was only about 10 or so, and it was a bit over my head at the time. I've always thought about going back and rereading it. Time to revisit "The Potato"?
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 4 күн бұрын
@StillLivinginthewoods That’s awesome! Sometimes revisiting a book with a bit more life experience makes all the difference. "The Potato" might surprise you in new ways now that you're older! It's amazing how different a book can feel after a few years. Definitely sounds like a great time to go back and give it another read!
@fr-de-guy
@fr-de-guy 25 күн бұрын
It's one of my top 4 favorite books. Its exploration of what humanity could reach and become is enlightening, and not only because of the technical possibilities (which are a pure speculation) but also because GB explores how humanity would get there. 40 years later, it still helps me understand what I observe every day in our modern society, where values are being vastly redefined and transhumanism is becoming reality.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 4 күн бұрын
@fr-de-guy I completely agree! The way the book delves into both the potential and the challenges of humanity's evolution is fascinating. It’s not just about the technology, but about the human experience-how values shift and what it means to be human in an ever-changing world. The relevance it still holds today, especially with the rise of transhumanism, makes it even more thought-provoking. It’s amazing how a story like that can offer insights into our present and future. Truly a timeless piece!
@cathylindeboo.9598
@cathylindeboo.9598 25 күн бұрын
Great idea for a channel!
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
Glad you think so!
@randomracki9453
@randomracki9453 25 күн бұрын
Best Sci Fi novel ever
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@randomracki9453 That’s high praise, and it’s hard to argue with it! *The Gods Themselves* has such a unique blend of mind-bending science, alien perspectives, and thought-provoking themes-it definitely earns its spot among the greats. Thanks for sharing your love for it! 🚀📚✨
@peterg76yt
@peterg76yt 25 күн бұрын
Against stupidity... the gods themselves... contend in vain
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@peterg76yt Such a powerful line, isn’t it? It perfectly encapsulates the tension and themes in *The Gods Themselves*. Asimov’s use of that Schiller quote sets the tone for the whole novel-big ideas, moral dilemmas, and the challenges of human (and alien) nature. Thanks for sharing it! 🚀📚✨
@ozymandiasultor9480
@ozymandiasultor9480 25 күн бұрын
Andromeda Strain is real hard science fiction, and that attracts readers. The scientific part of the novel is on a very high level. It is an excellent novel.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 4 күн бұрын
Absolutely agree! *The Andromeda Strain* stands out because of how deeply Michael Crichton commits to the science. His attention to detail and realistic portrayal of microbiology, containment protocols, and lab procedures make it feel grounded and believable. It’s that "hard science fiction" approach that not only draws readers in but also elevates the tension and stakes of the story. It really is an excellent novel, and its scientific depth is a big part of what makes it so timeless. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
@Tara_Li
@Tara_Li 25 күн бұрын
I am surprised that the short story “Gold” doesn’t get mentioned, as it goes very meta on this novel, and contains Asimov reflecting on his weaknesses as a writer.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@Tara_Li That’s a great point! *Gold* is such an insightful story, and you’re absolutely right that it offers a fascinating meta-reflection on Asimov’s writing, including his work on *The Gods Themselves*. It’s like a window into how he viewed his own strengths and limitations as an author. Thanks for bringing that up-it’s definitely worth mentioning for anyone interested in Asimov’s perspective on his craft! 🚀📚✨
@MentalschlankAt
@MentalschlankAt 26 күн бұрын
It's still one of my very favorite SciFi books
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 11 күн бұрын
@MentalschlankAt Totally agree-it’s such a timeless masterpiece! *The Gods Themselves* has a way of sticking with you, doesn’t it? Definitely one of the all-time greats in sci-fi. Thanks for sharing your love for it! 🚀📚✨
@fabrisseterbrugghe8567
@fabrisseterbrugghe8567 26 күн бұрын
This was the first Asimov that I ever read, and the first sci-fi that I ever knowingly read. It was in the American Library in Brussels when I was in high school. I adored it.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 26 күн бұрын
@fabrisseterbrugghe8567 What an amazing introduction to both Asimov and science fiction! *The Gods Themselves* is such a unique blend of mind-bending ideas and alien perspectives-definitely one of those books that sticks with you. I love that you discovered it in the American Library in Brussels; there's something special about finding a book that way, almost like it was waiting for you. Thanks for sharing that memory!
@CYI3ERPUNK
@CYI3ERPUNK 26 күн бұрын
chatgpt text babble =[
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 26 күн бұрын
@CYI3ERPUNK Oh, the irony-calling it "babble" while dropping a comment that sounds like it was typed by a bored chatbot on autopilot. Next time, try adding a full sentence. Or hey, maybe an actual thought? We’d love to know what *you* think-if there’s anything in there to share! 😉
@RaphaRanna
@RaphaRanna 26 күн бұрын
The only way I see for anyone to get back to the past and then prevent himself to time travel is in one nondeterministic universe, that allegedly allows free will to do so. In a deterministic universe, which seems to be the case, once you time travel, it's unavoidable to allows yourself to travel, once it depends exclusively on universe rules, not your free will - which does not exist indeed.
@gibsononbooks
@gibsononbooks 4 күн бұрын
Thank you for the thoughtful comment, @RaphaRanna. You've highlighted a fascinating tension between free will and determinism in the context of time travel. Whether the universe is deterministic or not has profound implications for how we might conceptualize scenarios like traveling to the past and altering events. In a deterministic universe, as you noted, all events-including the act of time travel-would be governed entirely by the fixed rules of the universe. This means any attempt to prevent your own time travel would already be part of the timeline. Essentially, the "attempt" itself becomes a predetermined event, leaving no room for deviation from the universe's script. It's an elegant solution to the paradoxes often associated with time travel, such as the grandfather paradox, but it does strip away the notion of free will as we commonly understand it. On the other hand, a nondeterministic universe introduces the possibility of alternate outcomes, potentially allowing for the kind of scenario you describe. If free will exists in such a universe, then it could lead to branching timelines or parallel realities where different choices create diverging outcomes. However, this raises further questions: If you prevent yourself from time traveling in one timeline, does another version of you continue to exist in a separate branch where the time travel occurred? Or does the act of prevention create an entirely new causal chain? Both views force us to grapple with deep philosophical questions about causality, the nature of the universe, and the role (if any) of free will in shaping outcomes. Your comment contributes to this rich dialogue and reminds us that time travel isn't just about bending physics-it's also about challenging our understanding of reality itself. Thanks for sparking such a compelling discussion!