The Beast of Wow and Wonder

In 'The Technological Society,' Jacques Ellul discusses the concept of 'technique,' which he defines as the totality of methods rationally arrived at and having absolute efficiency in every field of human activity. Ellul argues that modern society is dominated by this 'technique,' which is focused on efficiency and has infiltrated all aspects of human existence, including science, automation, politics, and human relations. He warns that this technological system threatens human freedom and responsibility, and that it has taken on a life of its own, independent of human control. The book explores the historical rise of 'technique,' its characteristics, and its profound impact on society, highlighting the need for a critical reevaluation of the role of technology in human life.

Published in 1970, 'Future Shock' by Alvin Toffler and his wife Adelaide Farrell examines the profound effects of rapid industrial and technological changes on individuals, families, and society. The book defines 'future shock' as a state of disorientation and confusion resulting from the overwhelming pace of change. Toffler argues that this rapid change leads to psychological ailments such as anxiety, hostility, and depression, and erodes traditional social structures like families and communities. He identifies three main forces driving future shock: transience, novelty, and diversity. The book also discusses the need for resilience and adaptive strategies to cope with these changes and suggests that societal institutions must evolve to support individuals in managing the 'adaptive range' required to deal with the accelerating pace of life.

In 'Countdown,' Jane MacGuire, a young woman and adoptive daughter of forensic sculptor Eve Duncan and her husband Joe Quinn, finds herself in the midst of a deadly conspiracy. After a surprise attack, Jane must determine who is stalking her and what they want, all while avoiding the help of the police and the FBI to protect her loved ones. She teams up with Mark Trevor, a mysterious and potentially dangerous ally, to uncover the truth behind a two-thousand-year-old mystery involving a concubine of Julius Caesar and a cache of gold that could be used to fund a terrorist attack. The story unfolds with action, romance, and historical intrigue, keeping Jane on the run and racing against time as the countdown to zero approaches.