Winner of the 1990 Science Book Prize.
 

• Offers an extraordinary tour of modern physics and mathematics
• Explores the uniqueness of the human mind
• Considers the practicalities of AI
• Includes an updated preface

 
For many decades, the proponents of 'artificial intelligence' have maintained that computers will soon be able to do everything that a human can do. In his bestselling work of popular science, Sir Roger Penrose takes us on a fascinating tour through the basic principles of physics, cosmology, mathematics, and philosophy to show that human thinking can never be emulated by a machine.
 
Oxford Landmark Science books are 'must-read' classics of modern science writing which have crystallized big ideas, and shaped the way we think.
 
 
REVIEWS:

An extraordinary masterpiece. - Adhemar Bultheel, European Mathmatical Society

Perhaps the most engaging and creative tour of modern physics that has ever been written - Sunday Times

A superb book... provocative and absorbing - Physics Today

A bold, brilliant, groundbreaking work... When Mr Penrose talks, scientists listen - New York Time Book Review

. . One cannot imagine a more revealing self-portrait than this enchanting, tantalising book... Roger Penrose reveals himself as an eloquent protagonist, not only of the wonders of mathematics, but also of the uniqueness of people. - Nature

I fail to see how anybody can remain unmoved by the book's central theme, which concerns the nature of human beings... His style is relaxed and entertaining, There are nuggets on almost every page. - Financial Times