Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization

Neil Degrasse Tyson

Book cover for Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization
Book cover for Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization
Book cover for Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization
Book cover for Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization

Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization

Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization

Neil Degrasse Tyson

View full details

Description

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

Bringing his cosmic perspective to civilization on Earth, Neil deGrasse Tyson shines new light on the crucial fault lines of our time--war, politics, religion, truth, beauty, gender, and race--in a way that stimulates a deeper sense of unity for us all.

In a time when our political and cultural views feel more polarized than ever, Tyson provides a much-needed antidote to so much of what divides us, while making a passionate case for the twin chariots of enlightenment--a cosmic perspective and the rationality of science.

After thinking deeply about how science sees the world and about Earth as a planet, the human brain has the capacity to reset and recalibrates life's priorities, shaping the actions we might take in response. No outlook on culture, society, or civilization remains untouched.

With crystalline prose, Starry Messenger walks us through the scientific palette that sees and paints the world differently. From insights on resolving global conflict to reminders of how precious it is to be alive, Tyson reveals, with warmth and eloquence, an array of brilliant and beautiful truths that apply to us all, informed and enlightened by knowledge of our place in the universe.

About the Author

Neil deGrasse Tyson is an astrophysicist and the author of the #1 bestselling Astrophysics for People in a Hurry, among other books. He is the director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, where he has served since 1996. Dr. Tyson is also the host and cofounder of the Emmy-nominated popular podcast StarTalk and its spinoff StarTalk Sports Edition, which combine science, humor, and pop culture. He is a recipient of 21 honorary doctorates, the Public Welfare Medal from the National Academy of Sciences, and the Distinguished Public Service Medal from NASA. Asteroid 13123 Tyson is named in his honor. He lives in New York City.

Critical Reviews

"Every page is lit up by an original poetic imagination but bearing the unmistakable stamp of a rational mind, steeped in maths and science."
--Richard Dawkins, author of The Selfish Gene and The God Delusion

"Handsome, gregarious and passionate about his subject matter, Neil deGrasse Tyson...meditates on what a life studying the majesty of the stars and the planets can teach us about how to deal with all the messy social and political conflicts bedeviling us here on Earth...Engaging as ever...He is lucidly down-to-earth and charmingly enthusiastic."
--The Washington Post

"Tyson has become the most influential science communicator in the country."
--Vox

"Tyson takes a rational approach to the topics that divide us and the ideals we question. This book may make you rethink your place in the Universe...Strap in; it's quite the cosmic ride."
--Discover

"I have a soft spot for books that make me stop and wonder at the world. Tyson's latest does just that--it's a perspective-widening take on our earthly problems, and a reassuring look at the progress we've made."
-Amazon Book Review, editors' pick

"Tyson's ability to simplify complex topics without seeming disparaging or condescending is refreshing, as is his willingness to approach such a broad range of topics in a forthright yet nonconfrontational manner...An excellent addition to any science collection that will encourage critical thinking by all who read it."
-Library Journal, STARRED Review

"[Neil deGrasse Tyson] tackles hot-button topics concerning gender identity, racial inequality, abortion, personal versus objective truths, and political beliefs. The tone and approach feel like an updated version of Freakonomics (2005) with the pointed and thought-provoking stance of a Dan Ariely book, but with more scientific undertones, a sprinkling of religious references, and a dash of sass."
-Booklist

"[A] welcome voice in the escalating fight with the array of forces aligned against science and rational thought. Good sense for those who value good sense."
-Kirkus

"Tyson's at his best when he explains what he sees as the unique power of science, touting the 'self-regulating' nature of the scientific method and asserting that 'conformity in science is anathema to progress.'"
-Publishers Weekly

Publishing Information

Publisher: Henry Holt & Company
Pub date: 2022-09-20
Length: 288 pages

The Allstora Membership

Membership Perks:

  • Save 30% on all online store purchases
  • Exclusive access to author's content
  • You pay less, but authors still earn double

Membership Terms:

First Month: $0.00
Monthly price: $5.00
  • To access membership discount simply log in and add to cart, discount applied automatically.
  • One month free trial, cancel anytime. Membership renews on the 15th of each month.