'Clever and entertaining.' Sunday Times
'Elegantly written and full of surprises.' Daily Telegraph
'Always entertaining and often eye-opening.' Financial Times
Old ideas that were mocked or ignored for centuries are now storming back to the cutting edge of research and informing the way we lead our lives. In Rethink, Steven Poole explains why today's chess grandmasters, quantum physicists and psychologists are mining the last 2,000 years of history for answers to the problems of the present. He explores how long-neglected thinkers could transform our everyday lives: from improving the way boardrooms operate, to inspiring grand projects for social and political change. And above all, he shows that by rethinking discarded ideas we can each gain a better understanding of the world - and perhaps be better equipped to change it.
'A whirlwind of discovery ... Among the greatest compliments you can give a book is that it helps you to see things differently.' Guardian
'When it comes to describing a complex idea clearly, Poole is one of the best writers around.' Sunday Times
'Fascinating ... Poole confirms his standing as one of our liveliest and most thought-provoking writers on science and technology.' Spectator Steven Poole's book is full of fascinating stories ... It's a treasure trove for people who like to begin stories with "Did you know that...?" * The Times * Fascinating ... Poole confirms his standing as one of our liveliest and most thought-provoking writers on science and technology. * Spectator * Always entertaining and often eye-opening * Financial Times * Clever and entertaining ... when it comes to describing a complex idea clearly, Poole is one of the best writers around. * Sunday Times * Entertaining and important ... Elegantly written and full of surprises * Daily Telegraph *
Rethink: The Surprising History of New Ideas