About the Book ‘We are travelling at breakneck speed into an era of extremes – extremes of wealth and poverty, extremes in technology, extremes in globalization. If we are to survive, we must learn how to manage them all.’ James Martin, one of the world's most widely respected authorities on the impact of technology on society, argues that we are living at a turning point in human history and that it is in the scientific breakthroughs of the new century that we will find new hope. Martin sets out the key challenges he sees ahead and proposes an interconnected set of solutions to each challenge. From ways to address climate change to genetic modification of humans, he demonstrates that rather than destroy our planet, and ourselves with it, we have the potential for a magnificent future. Provocative and controversial, this blueprint for change is essential reading. In ten years’ time it may be too late.

Reviews "On rare occasions a special book introduces a vital new idea into the public consciousness. This is one of those books."   Susan Greenfield, Director of the Royal Institution   'A wonderful book. A privilege to read'  Lord Rees, President of the Royal Society   'To survive the difficult 21st Century we will need all that technology can offer, but in addition we need the optimistic belief in it that James Martin provides'  James Lovelock, author of Gaia: A New Look at Life on Earth   'A firebell warning....Any political or business leader eager to make history should begin by reading James Martin's hopeful and crucial blueprint.' Hernando de Soto, author of The Mystery of Capital   'This is the critical century. Get right and we could have an incredible future, get it wrong and we face irreversible destruction that could set humanity back centuries or worse'  New Scientist