Michio Kaku presents concepts familiar to both casual and hard-core sci-fi fans alike and discusses the possibility of them happening. Each concept fits into what he calls a Class I, Class II or Class III impossibility.
Class I = Impossible today, but do not violate laws of physics. These could become possible within a few centuries.
Class II= Impossible today and maybe not possible for thousands to millions of years.
Class III= These could only be possible by re-writing current laws of physics.
I don’t recall ever enjoying a book like this so much. His narrative includes explanations of how historical events shaped science and vice-versa.
I really appreciate how he never really closes the door on the possibility of anything, perhaps recognizing how so much has changed scientifically within the last century. Rather, he explains what it would mean for any of these things to be realized. As an example, on the discussion of perpetual motion machines one might ask if they are possible. He classifies these as Class III impossibilities meaning for them to be realized would mean a large change to current understanding of physics.
In short, the book sounds a bit geeky and probably is. Yet I think there is enough balance here to entertain the geek and non-geek alike.
I heard this guy on Opie and Anthony. Great guest. This book is on my list.
@MAS – Indeed, I stumbled on the same interview driving home one day which prompted my reading it. The book was every bit as interesting as that interview.