The Immaterial

In the last full-length theoretical work completed before his death in 2007, French social philosopher Gorz argues for the creation of a new economy based upon true knowledge. He calls into question the nature and future of human beings as the foundation of society takes an intangible—immaterial—form and "work" now lies in the human mind rather than the human hand. Gorz speaks poignantly to the recent economic and employment crises in America and elsewhere, citing Marxism and the dangers of the commodification of human experience. Drawing heavily from authors of a variety of disciplines, both supporters and detractors, Gorz has crafted a convincing diagnosis of the crisis of capitalism and predicts in frighteningly plausible terms the outcomes of artificial intelligence and genetic engineering advances. An approachable philosophical critique that has both the lyricism of poetry and the thrill of sci-fi, Gorz's insightful interpretation of humanity's current state and harrowing future is inspiring. (Dec.)