‘An excellent introduction . . . presents mathematical and statisticalfindings in straightforward prose.’
Financial Times
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Information
A Very Short Introduction
Luciano Floridi
Luciano Floridi, a philosopher of information, cuts across many subjects, from a brief look at the mathematical roots of information - its definition and measurement in ‘bits’ - to its role in genetics (we are information), and its social meaning and value. He ends by considering the ethics of information, including issues of ownership, privacy, and accessibility; copyright and open source. For those unfamiliar with its precise meaning and wide applicability as a philosophical concept, ‘information’ may seem a bland or mundane topic. Those who have studied some science or philosophy or sociology will already be aware of its centrality and richness. But for all readers, whether from the humanities or sciences, Floridi gives a fascinating and inspirational introduction to this most fundamental of ideas.
‘Splendidly pellucid.’
Steven Poole, The Guardian
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Innovation
A Very Short Introduction
Mark Dodgson & David Gann
This Very Short Introduction looks at what innovation is and why it affects us so profoundly. It examines how it occurs, who stimulates it, how it is pursued, and what its outcomes are, both positive and negative. Innovation is hugely challenging and failure is common, yet it is essential to our social and economic progress. Mark Dodgson and David Gann consider the extent to which our understanding of innovation developed over the past century and how it might be used to interpret the global economy we all face in the future.
‘Innovation has always been fundamental to leadership, be it in the public or private arena. This insightful book teaches lessons from the successes of the past, and spotlights the challenges and the opportunities for innovation as we move from the industrial age to the knowledge economy.’
Sanford, Senior Vice President, IBM
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Nothing
A Very Short Introduction
Frank Close
What is ‘nothing’? What remains when you take all the matter away? Can empty space - a void - exist? This Very Short Introduction explores the science and history of the elusive void: from Aristotle’s theories to black holes and quantum particles, and why the latest discoveries about the vacuum tell us extraordinary things about the cosmos. Frank Close tells the story of how scientists have explored the elusive void, and the rich discoveries that they have made there. He takes the reader on a lively and accessible history through ancient ideas and cultural superstitions to the frontiers of current research.
‘An accessible and entertaining read for layperson and scientistalike.’
Physics World
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