Films from the Future

Hard Science Fiction Films that Predict Future Technology

“As the breakneck advance of technology takes us into a world that is both exciting and menacing, sci-fi films give us an inkling of what is to come, and what we should avoid.” —Seth Shostak, senior astronomer at the SETI Institute, and host of Big Picture Science

#1 Best Seller in Nanotechnology, Computers & Technology, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Mechanical Engineering, and Robotics & Automation, Cybernetics, and Experiments & Projects

Dr. Andrew Maynard, physicist and leading expert on socially responsible development of emerging and converging technologies, examines hard science fiction movies and brings them to life.

Science and technology are radically changing our world. Films from the Future is an essential guide to navigating a future dominated by complex and powerful new technologies. The jump from room-filling processors to pocket-size super computers is just the beginning. Artificial intelligence, gene manipulation, cloning, and inter-planet travel are all ideas that seemed like fairy tales but a few years ago. And now their possibility is very much here. But are we ready to handle these advances? As Maynard explains, “Viewed in the right way?and with a good dose of critical thinking?science fiction movies can help us think about and prepare for the social consequences of technologies we don’t yet have, but that are coming faster than we imagine.”

Dr. Maynard looks at twelve sci-fi movies and takes us on a journey through the worlds of biological and genetic manipulation, human enhancement, cyber technologies, and nanotechnology. Gain a broader understanding of the complex relationship between science and society. The movies include old and new, and the familiar and unfamiliar, providing a unique, entertaining, and ultimately transformative take on the power and responsibilities of emerging technologies.

Read books such as The Book of Why, The Science of Interstellar, or The Future of Humanity? Then you’ll love Films from the Future!

The Movies That Shape Our Future…Physicist Andrew Maynard threads together his love of science fiction movies with his expertise on emerging technologies to engage, entertain, and make you think about the relationship between technology and society as humanity continues to push the boundaries on advances in science. Through the imagination and creativity of science fiction movies, Maynard introduces readers to the profound capabilities presented by new and emerging technologies, and the complex personal and societal challenges they present. Each movie in Films from the Future provides the starting point for exploring potentially life-changing technologies and trends, from genetic engineering (Jurassic Park) and brain-enhancing drugs (Limitless), to human augmentation (Ghost in the Shell), and artificial intelligence (Ex Machina). These are woven together with emerging ideas on technological convergence and responsible and ethical innovation to provide a sweeping perspective on where our technologies are taking us, and how we ensure this is where we want to go. With each examination, you will take a progressive journey through the fascinating worlds of biological and genetic manipulation, human enhancement and cyber technologies, and nanotechnology. Maynard shows that the fantastical worlds of the movies might not be as impossible as we think. With a focus on hard science, economics, the social implications of technological feats, and the movies that could very well become our real-life future, Films from the Future will be sure to educate and entertain!Back flap (author bio with photo)Dr. Andrew Maynard is an author, physicist, and leading expert on the socially responsible development of emerging and converging technologies. His PhD is in Physics from the University of Cambridge, UK. For over twenty years he has worked closely with experts from around the world on the challenges and opportunities presented by technologies ranging from nanotechnology and genetic engineering, to artificial intelligence and self-driving cars. He was previously Chair of the World Economic Forum Global Agenda Council on Emerging Technologies, and continues to work closely with the Forum on beneficial and responsible technology innovation. In addition to his academic work, Andrew is a prolific writer, communicator, and sought-after speaker. He blogs on technology and society at 2020Science.org, produces the YouTube channel Risk Bites, and is active on Twitter as @2020science. Dr. Maynard is currently a professor in the School for the Future of Innovation at Society at Arizona State University. He spends more time than any sane person should watching sci-fi movies.Back cover What Readers Are Saying about Films from the Future“What an unexpected and compelling combination of art and science. Using creativity, from the minds of filmmakers, to examine the potential pitfalls of technology, to show humanity a better path—pure genius!” —Danielle Feinberg, Director of Photography at Pixar“Andrew Maynard raises some deep philosophical issues about who we are and want to be as human beings while graphically illustrating what could go wrong… It should be widely read by scientists, engineers, physicians, business and political leaders and other professionals, indeed, everyone who cares about the future of humanity.” —Neal Lane, former science advisor to President Bill Clinton“Thoughtfully composed and delightful to read, Films from the Future ushers us on a whirlwind tour through decades of science fiction, shedding light on some of the most extraordinary achievements of our time. Maynard explores the incredible possibilities and dire consequences of boundless human innovation, imagination, and ambition…and may just change the way you go to the movies.” —Sheril Kirshenbaum, author of The Science of Kissing and Executive Director of the nonprofit organization Science Debate “What is that chasm between imagining and creating? Andrew Maynard challenges us to walk that brave path through that thus far uncharted countryside, and build that positive future.” —Lindy Elkins-Tanton, leader of the NASA “Psyche Mission: A Journey to a Metal World” “Maynard will have you questioning the most rational assumptions, not just those featured in movies.” —Darlene Cavalier, Founder of SciStarter