Anticipations of the Reactions of Mechanical and Scientific Progress upon Human Life and Thought

by H G Wells, HG Wells
Anticipations of the Reactions of Mechanical and Scientific Progress upon Human Life and Thought cover
Good Books rating 4.58
Buy online
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 8487
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-22
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Five Books · Roger Luckhurst · 2016-10-31
pioneering 4.75

The book is seen as a pioneering work in futurology, extrapolating the future from the present. It invents the idea of looking forward and trying to predict what might happen.

Roger Luckhurst, a scholar of H.G. Wells, praises 'Anticipations' as a groundbreaking work that essentially invents the field of futurology. He emphasizes how Wells' approach of looking forward and extrapolating the future from current events is both innovative and influential. Luckhurst suggests that this book is a must-read for understanding the origins of futuristic thinking. He also notes that Wells' predictions and social commentary are remarkably prescient, making the book a valuable historical document as well as a fascinating read.

Quick quotes

    It kind of invents 'futurology', the idea of looking forward and trying to extrapolate the future from what is happening in the present.

    It is a must-read for understanding the origins of futuristic thinking.

    Wells' predictions and social commentary are remarkably prescient.

Fantastic Fiction · 2000-01-01
insightful 4.50

The book is brimming with stimulating ideas and holds new relevance a century after its original publication. It is fascinating to read, especially on the eve of the millennium.

This review highlights how 'Anticipations' is packed with thought-provoking concepts that remain relevant even today. The reviewer finds it particularly engaging to read this book at the turn of the millennium, suggesting that its insights into the future are still pertinent. They appreciate Wells' foresight and the timeless nature of his ideas, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in futurism or social commentary. The book's ability to bridge the gap between past and present is noted as one of its strongest assets.

Quick quotes

    Brimming with stimulating ideas, Anticipations holds new relevance a century after its original publication.

    Fascinating to read on the eve of the millennium.

    It is a compelling read for anyone interested in futurism or social commentary.

JSTOR · 1900-01-01
brilliant 4.50

Wells is noted for beginning his career at the pinnacle of his creative power. The book is a significant work that showcases his early brilliance.

This review from JSTOR highlights H.G. Wells' remarkable start to his career, noting that he began at the height of his creative abilities. 'Anticipations' is presented as a testament to his early brilliance, showcasing his unique perspective and imaginative prowess. The reviewer suggests that this book is a key example of Wells' ability to blend scientific speculation with social commentary. They also note that his insights into the future remain relevant and thought-provoking, making 'Anticipations' a significant work in his oeuvre. The review emphasizes the timeless quality of Wells' ideas and their enduring impact on futuristic thought.

Quick quotes

    H.G. Wells is one of those rare writers who begin their careers at the pinnacle of their creative power.

    Starting with The Time Machine, Wells showcased his unique perspective and imaginative prowess.

    His insights into the future remain relevant and thought-provoking.

Appears in Lists