Named the Best Book of the Year by The Economist, Wall Street Journal & Vox. The "father of virtual reality" (Sunday Times) explains why virtual reality is the ultimate test for humanity.

Virtual reality has long since become one of the dominant clichés of science fiction. Now virtual reality is a reality: from the stunning beauty of virtual games to the place where war veterans overcome PTSD, surgical procedures are tested, and aircraft and cities are designed. VR is, in fact, the most effective device ever invented for researching what it truly means to be human – and how we think and feel.

More than thirty years ago, the legendary computer scientist, visionary, and artist Jaron Lanier developed his invention. Here he combines scientific research, philosophical thought, and the memories of a life lived at the center of digital innovation to explain what VR really is: the science of total illusion? the extension of the familiar magic of early childhood into adulthood? an indication of what life would be like without any limits.

We stand on the brink of an entirely new sphere of human creativity, expression, communication, and experience, and as we use VR to test our relationship with reality, it may test us in return.

Pages: 368, Dimensions: 12.9x12.9cm