Literature

Consider Phlebas

Iain M. Banks · 1987

Lindy Score

4,773·Classic

39 yrs

Age

2

Endorsers

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Why it endured

The first novel in Banks' legendary Culture series, set in a post-scarcity civilization governed by benevolent artificial intelligences. A gripping adventure that asks what meaning and purpose look like in a world where scarcity has been abolished — one of the most influential visions of a beneficial AI future.

What they're saying

2 people recommend this book

PewDiePieContent creator & book reviewer

The Culture series is one of the best science fiction universes ever created. Consider Phlebas is a perfect entry point — big ideas wrapped in a genuinely gripping story.

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Demis HassabisCEO of Google DeepMind

Iain Banks imagined the post-AGI world better than anyone. The Culture novels are required reading for anyone thinking about what beneficial AI could actually look like.

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