David Alvarado, Jason Sussberg
"We are as gods and might as well get good at it," Stewart Brand wrote in '68. The pioneer of LSD, cyberspace, futurism, and modern environmentalism now urges people to use our god-like powers to fight extinction by reviving lost ...
WE ARE AS GODS offers a compelling deep dive into the many sides of Stewart Brand - creator of The Whole Earth Catalog, an influential member of Ken Kesey's "The Merry Pranksters," a founder of the modern environmental movement, and today a vocal advocate for bringing back extinct species of animals and plants. Brand's approach to his work and life influenced many, including Steve Jobs, who have gone on to shape our modern world. Now in his 80's, he looks to leave a legacy for the future with his Long Now Foundation and efforts to "enhance biodiversity through the genetic rescue of extinct and endangered species." The man who coined the phrase "we are as gods and might as well get good at it" is now under fire from former allies who believe he's gone too far, but Brand won't be easily deterred from a mission he feels is necessary to save the future of the planet.
What an interesting character. I knew he was influential on steve jobs. I did not know how influential he was on the environmental movement, how he was part of the merry pranksters (!) and how he was involved with the homebrew computer club. Super interesting guy. Also turns out I was a block away from where he lives in Sausalito just the other day (the bay area is a small place).