How Long is Now?
Fascinating answers to 191 Mind-boggling questions
By: New Scientist
About This Book
How long is 'now'? The short answer is 'somewhere between 2 and 3 seconds'. The long answer involves an incredible journey through neuroscience, our subconscious and the time-bending power of meditation. Living in the present may never feel the same. Ready for some more? Okay. Why isn't Pluto a planet? Why are dogs' noses wet? Why do hens cluck more loudly after laying an egg? What happens when one black hole swallows another? Do our fingerprints change as we get older? How young can you die of old age? And what is at the very edge of the Universe? Life is full of mind-bending questions. And, as books like What If? and Why Don't Penguins' Feet Freeze? have shown, the route to find each answer can take us on the weirdest and most wonderful journeys. How Long is Now? is a fascinating new collection of questions you never thought to ask, along with answers that will change the way you see everything.
AI Overview
"How Long is Now?" by New Scientist is a fascinating collection of answers to mind-boggling questions that delve into various scientific and philosophical topics. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:
Key Themes
- Time Perception: The book begins with the question of how long "now" is, providing a short answer of "somewhere between 2 and 3 seconds" and then embarks on a detailed journey through neuroscience, the subconscious, and the time-bending power of meditation.
- Neuroscience and Consciousness: It explores the intricacies of our brain and consciousness, offering insights into how we perceive time and live in the present moment.
- Subconscious and Meditation: The book discusses the role of the subconscious and meditation in shaping our understanding of time and reality.
- Mind-Bending Questions: The book is filled with a variety of intriguing questions such as why Pluto is no longer considered a planet, why dogs' noses are wet, and what happens when one black hole swallows another.
Plot Summary
The book is structured around a series of questions that are both intriguing and thought-provoking. Each question serves as a gateway to explore a wide range of scientific and philosophical topics. The narrative is not linear but rather a collection of essays and answers that cover various aspects of human curiosity. The book takes readers on a journey through the unexplained, making the ordinary seem extraordinary and the complex simple.
Critical Reception
While specific reviews are not provided in the search results, the book's description suggests it has been well-received for its unique approach to presenting scientific information in an engaging and accessible manner. The book's popularity is evident from its inclusion in the "Last Word" series, which has a significant following.
Format and Details
- Author: New Scientist
- Format: Paperback / softback
- Number of Pages: 304
- Publisher Description: The book promises to change the way readers see everything by providing fascinating answers to mind-boggling questions.
In summary, "How Long is Now?" by New Scientist is a captivating collection of answers to intriguing questions that blend science, philosophy, and curiosity. It offers a unique perspective on time perception, neuroscience, and the subconscious, making it an engaging read for anyone interested in exploring the mysteries of our world.