Naydler's latest book is an essential read for those interested in recent human development

In the Shadow of the Machine: The Prehistory of the Computer and the Evolution of Consciousness

by Jeremy Naydler

In typical Naydler style this book covers the full spectrum of human existence. In this case the argument is made that present day western civilization overvaluing of dialectic logic is a dead end that threatens our existence as humans. Stretching back to some early decisions in Mesopotamia and Ancient Egyptian on the application of technology over deeper spiritual and higher, Naydler traces numerous small choices that have led up to our present highly technical, engineered life that is missing much that makes us happy and whole.

In great detail he documents (with references) the many steps that has taken us from a water pump to the essential basis for electrical computing. He shines clear light on the many pieces that has led to what we presently take as normal - surrounded and reliant on "computer" processes in every aspect of our lives. The lineage presented shows that this is not normal and misses much that has made us humans for 100's of thousands of years.

The book has a lovely deft touch that is non-anachronistic. This is not a rant against what has been decided and discovered over the past 5,000 years, but more a call for the reintroduction of higher human functioning in our endeavours.

An excellent re-envisaging of our "recent" history that is needed to set the course for our future.