Matt Ridley
Author and science communicator known for his positive perspective on progress and human innovation.
23 books recommended
The Selfish Gene
Richard Dawkins
Explores the concept of the gene as the central unit of selection in evolution, introducing the idea of the "selfish gene."
The Martian
Andy Weir
Follows an astronaut stranded on Mars who uses his engineering skills to survive, highlighting problem-solving and resilience.
Whole Earth Discipline
Stewart Brand
Explores the potential of eco-friendly technologies and innovations to address global environmental challenges.
Alchemy
Rory Sutherland
Argues that unconventional thinking and psychological insights can solve complex problems in business and life, beyond pure data analysis.
The Vital Question
Nick Lane
Explores the origins of life, examining how energy flow drives biological processes.
What Technology Wants
Kevin Kelly
Explores technology as a self-evolving force, discussing its development, impact, and future trajectories.
The Double Helix
James D. Watson Ph.D.
Watson’s personal account of the discovery of the DNA structure, highlighting the process and controversies behind scientific breakthroughs.
The Fabric of Civilization
Virginia Postrel
Explores the history of textiles and their impact on technology, trade, and culture.
The Origin of Species
Charles Darwin
The foundational text on evolutionary biology, introducing the theory of natural selection.
My Family and Other Animals
Gerald Durrell
A humorous memoir about the author's childhood in Corfu, detailing his family’s adventures and love for nature.
Dynasty
Tom Holland
Chronicles the rise and fall of the first Roman emperors, from Augustus to Nero, detailing their influence on the empire.
Rubicon
Tom Holland
A history of the Roman Republic’s fall, highlighting key figures and events that led to the empire’s rise.
The Bottomless Well
Peter Huber
Discusses energy consumption and its role in economic growth, challenging traditional views on energy limits.
The Skeptical Environmentalist
Bj√∏rn Lomborg
Challenges conventional environmental views, analyzing data on climate change, pollution, and resources.
The Ultimate Resource 2
Julian Lincoln Simon
Expanded version of Simon’s arguments on resources and economic growth.
One Summer
Bill Bryson
A look at the summer of 1927 in America, highlighting pivotal events and personalities.
The Hockey Stick Illusion
A W Montford
Critiques climate science, focusing on the hockey stick graph debate.
p53
Sue Armstrong
Explores the p53 gene and its role in cancer research and human genetics.
Cuckoo
Nick Davies
Examination of the British press and the ethical issues surrounding journalism.
Unravelling the Double Helix
Gareth Williams
History of the discovery of DNA's structure and its scientific impact.
Inspired by Matt Ridley's recommendations?
Start your own reading journey and share your insights with the community!