Now For Then: How to Face the Digital Future Without Fear

by Ben Hammersley

In 64 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW NOW FOR THEN, Editor-at-Large for Wired magazine and guru of the digital age Ben Hammersley gives us the essential guide to the things we need to know for life in the 21st century. Explaining the effects of the changes in the modern world, and the latest ideas in technology, culture, business and politics, this book will demystify the internet, decode cyberspace, and guide you through the innovations of the revolution we are all living through. This is not a book for geeks. 64 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW NOW FOR THEN is for everyone who wants to truly understand the modern world, to no longer be confused by the changes in society, business and culture, and to truly prosper in the coming decade.

449 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 5, 2012

Reviews

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

Insightful analysis of our digital world and how it has come to be, mixed with a jumble of good ideas about how we will be able to maximise its potential, topped with (mostly non-apocalyptic) prophecies. Ben does take "the fear" out of the conversation about the digital world - it's refreshing to read a logical and measured response to the exaggerated warnings you find in sensationalist news reports. Most of the ideas explored are still true and relevant today but, written in 2012, the book is starting to feel a tad outdated with a lot of focus on the years 2008-2012. It would be interesting to read an updated version that tackles Trump & Twitter populism, how he won the presidency through targeted Facebook advertising, TTIP, smart watches and health monitoring, Snapchat, Uber, smart home assistants, VR and its everyday use in marketing, and other digital trends that have found their way into our lives.

[Tim Sparke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brilliantly simply written explanation of lots of futurist ideas. A great primer.

[Dirk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although some parts of this book are well known because the Internet and WWW have been with us for so long now, a book contextualising issues from kittens on YouTube to Snowden is very useful and interesting.

[Martyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent collection of stories and facts about the way technology is changing the way we live and interact. Highly recommended.