Isaac Asimov's Vision Of The Future | Letterman
Summary
TLDRIn this engaging interview, Dr. Isaac Asimov discusses his prolific writing career, having published 221 books, including his autobiographies 'In Memory Yet Green' and 'Enjoy Still Felt'. He shares his writing process, touches on his interests in science fiction, mysteries, and annotating historical texts. Asimov also reflects on technological advancements in space exploration, the potential of genetic engineering, and the future of communication technology, offering insights into his predictions and perspectives on these evolving fields.
Takeaways
- 📚 Dr. Isaac Asimov has published his 221st book, reflecting a prolific writing career.
- 🤔 When asked about his writing compulsion, Asimov suggests it's a natural inclination and part of his identity as a writer.
- ⏰ Asimov describes his writing routine as starting in the morning, writing until completion, and then returning to bed.
- 💬 His favorite work is his autobiography, which he considers the most personal and significant subject matter.
- 🔬 Asimov is currently working on a monthly essay for 'The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction', among other projects.
- 🎭 He expresses interest in a variety of writing genres, including science fiction, mysteries, limericks, and historical annotations.
- 🎥 The popularity of science fiction movies like 'Star Wars' and 'The Empire Strikes Back' is attributed to advancements in special effects.
- 🚀 Asimov regrets the de-emphasis on the manned space program, believing it was a mistake to halt after the Moon landing.
- 🌌 He envisions a future with developed space civilizations, including space stations, settlements, and lunar mining operations.
- 🧬 Asimov anticipates significant medical advancements in gene manipulation, potentially curing congenital diseases.
- 🛰️ He discusses the potential for space-based weaponry, but expresses skepticism about its development and necessity.
- 📡 Predicting future communication technologies, Asimov foresees the use of laser beams and optical fibers for high-capacity data transmission.
Q & A
How many books has Dr. Isaac Asimov published according to the transcript?
-Dr. Isaac Asimov has published 221 books, as mentioned in the transcript.
What is the title of Dr. Asimov's most recent book discussed in the interview?
-The title of Dr. Asimov's most recent book is 'Enjoy Still Felt,' which is the second volume of his autobiography.
What is Dr. Asimov's writing routine as described in the interview?
-Dr. Asimov's writing routine involves getting up in the morning, sitting down to write, and going back to bed after finishing writing.
What does Dr. Asimov consider his favorite subject to write about?
-Dr. Asimov considers himself his favorite subject to write about, as indicated by his enjoyment in writing his autobiography.
What are some of the topics Dr. Asimov enjoys writing about aside from science fiction?
-Aside from science fiction, Dr. Asimov enjoys writing mysteries, limericks, history books, and annotating texts like the Bible and Shakespeare.
What is the concept of annotating the Bible as explained by Dr. Asimov?
-Annotating the Bible involves copying down all the verses and adding footnotes with personal comments or explanations for each verse, often resulting in annotations longer than the text itself.
Which science fiction movies did Dr. Asimov mention enjoying in the interview?
-Dr. Asimov mentioned enjoying 'Star Wars' and 'The Empire Strikes Back,' even expressing enthusiasm for the continuation of the series.
What was Dr. Asimov's opinion on the timing of the United States' withdrawal from the manned space program?
-Dr. Asimov believed that the United States backed away from the manned space program at the wrong time, suggesting it was primarily due to having beaten the Russians to the Moon.
What does Dr. Asimov suggest as the next logical step in space exploration after landing on the Moon?
-Dr. Asimov suggests staying within the Earth-Moon system to develop space stations, space settlements, power stations in orbit, and lunar mining stations before exploring further.
How does Dr. Asimov view the future of genetic medicine and its potential applications?
-Dr. Asimov envisions genetic medicine advancing to the point where congenital diseases could be corrected by manipulating genes, potentially eliminating the need for treatments like insulin injections for diabetes.
What are Dr. Asimov's thoughts on the complexity of modern technology and its impact on everyday life?
-Dr. Asimov acknowledges the increasing complexity of technology, noting that while it advances to do more, it initially becomes more difficult to use until the next leap in technology simplifies it again.
What is the title of the book Dr. Asimov is working on that involves annotating the first 11 chapters of Genesis?
-The book Dr. Asimov is working on, which involves annotating the first 11 chapters of Genesis, is titled 'In the Beginning'.
What is the significance of the communication developments mentioned by Dr. Asimov, such as communication satellites and optical fibers?
-Dr. Asimov highlights the significance of communication developments like satellites and optical fibers for their potential to greatly increase the capacity for messages, possibly allowing for individual television channels and enhanced closed-circuit television use in various fields.
What is the title of the first part of Dr. Asimov's autobiography?
-The first part of Dr. Asimov's autobiography is titled 'In Memory Yet Green,' which covers his life from 1920 to 1954.
Outlines
📚 Prolific Authorship: Dr. Isaac Asimov's 221 Books
Dr. Isaac Asimov, a renowned author, discusses his extensive bibliography, which includes 221 published books, with his most recent being an autobiography titled 'Enjoy Still Felt'. He shares insights into his writing routine, waking up early to write and then returning to bed after finishing for the day. When asked about his favorite work, he expresses a fondness for his autobiographies, as they focus on his favorite subject—himself. Asimov also talks about his diverse interests in writing, including essays for 'The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction', mysteries, limericks, and annotating historical texts such as the Bible and Shakespeare. He reflects on the advancements in technology, particularly in the film industry, which has led to a surge in interest in science fiction and space exploration.
🚀 Space Exploration and Technological Advancements
In this segment, Dr. Isaac Asimov delves into his predictions about space exploration, some of which have come true, such as the description of a spacewalk in 1952 that matched the actual event when it occurred. He talks about the importance of staying in the Earth-Moon system to develop a space civilization, including building space stations, settlements, power stations in orbit, and lunar mining facilities. Asimov also expresses his views on the manned space program, suggesting that the focus shifted away from it prematurely due to political reasons, and he anticipates a resurgence in interest if Russia makes significant advancements in space technology. He envisions a future where space travel becomes more accessible and integral to human life.
🧬 Genetic Engineering and Future Medical Breakthroughs
Dr. Asimov discusses the potential of genetic engineering, predicting that future medical breakthroughs may involve manipulating genes to correct congenital diseases, such as diabetes, instead of relying on treatments like insulin injections. He envisions a time when genetic analysis at birth could allow for preventative genetic interventions. Asimov also touches on the ethical considerations and risks associated with such technology, emphasizing the need for thorough testing and development. Furthermore, he comments on the progress made in genetic engineering, such as the use of engineered bacteria to produce human insulin, which has improved the treatment for diabetics and reduced the risk of allergic reactions.
🌐 Communications Revolution and the Future of Technology
In the final paragraph, Dr. Isaac Asimov speculates on monumental breakthroughs in communication technology, highlighting the ongoing advancements in communication satellites and optical fibers. He predicts a future where laser beams could replace electrical currents and radio waves for transmitting information, enabling an exponential increase in the capacity for data transmission. Asimov foresees a time when each individual could have their own television channel and closed-circuit television becomes prevalent in various sectors, including education and research. The discussion concludes with a reference to his autobiography, 'Enjoy Still Felt,' which is the second part of his life story, following 'In Memory Yet Green,' covering the years 1920 to 1954.
Mindmap
Keywords
💡Autobiography
💡Science Fiction
💡Space Race
💡Special Effects
💡Gene Editing
💡Communication Satellites
💡Laser Beams
💡Space Station
💡Manned Space Program
💡Annotated Bible
💡Typewriter
Highlights
Isaac Asimov has published his 221st book, making him an incredibly prolific author.
Asimov's favorite book is his autobiography, as it is about his favorite subject - himself.
Asimov has a unique writing routine of waking up, writing, then going back to bed after finishing writing.
Asimov enjoys writing across various genres including science fiction, mysteries, limericks, history, and annotating religious texts.
Asimov's upcoming book 'In the Beginning' will annotate the first 11 chapters of Genesis in the Bible.
Asimov believes the interest in science fiction movies like Star Wars is due to the spectacular special effects made possible by advancements in movie technology.
Asimov wishes there was another major space project like the manned space program to inspire people.
Asimov thinks the US backed away from the manned space program at the wrong time, primarily due to having beaten the Russians to the Moon.
Asimov predicts the US will get back into the space race if the Russians achieve a major milestone like a large space station or a working shuttle.
Asimov believes the next logical step in space exploration should be developing a space civilization within the Earth-Moon system before venturing further.
Asimov has occasionally written about things that later came true, such as spacewalks and pocket computers.
Asimov finds modern technology increasingly complex, making it difficult for him to figure out devices without reading the manual.
Asimov believes gene manipulation could lead to breakthroughs in medicine by correcting congenital diseases.
Asimov thinks genetic engineering is a risky area that should be thoroughly tested on animals before being tried on humans.
Asimov is unsure about the potential breakthroughs in cancer research, stating that it could come at any time but is not here yet.
Asimov expresses concern about the development of space weapons using laser beams or ion beams against satellites.
Asimov predicts that in 30 years, there will either be no wars or no humans, due to the potential consequences of weapons research.
Asimov highlights ongoing monumental breakthroughs in communication technology, such as communication satellites, optical fibers, and laser beams.
Asimov envisions a future where everyone could have their own television channel due to advancements in communication technology.
Transcripts
my next guest most recent published work is his 221st book I haven't written that many postcards
uh the book is entitled enjoy still felt an autobiography welcome please Dr Isaac Asimov
okay let's spend a minute here talking about the fact that you've written 220
21 books so far so far is that a compulsive Behavior do you think I enjoy it you know
why not sure but I say to myself here I am a handsome writer I should know right yeah
what kind of schedule do you put in to write that many books I get
up in the morning sit down and write when I finish writing go back to bed
is uh is there one particular work that's a favorite for you out of all of those Publications
well yes the one you've got right there is the second volume of my autobiography that
in the first volume if you put them together is my favorite book because it's my favorite subject
tell me a little bit about yourself what uh what uh what would we need to know about you
well once you've said 221 books that's it what else is there I mean if you sit down and write
that you haven't got time for anything else uh what are you working on now several things
right now I'm working on my monthly essay for the magazine of fantasy and science fiction and when
I get done with that I will go back to one of the books some in the middle of is that your favorite
topic area science and science fiction I suppose so though I also like to write Mysteries and
I like to write limericks I like to write history books like to annotate like the Bible Shakespeare
various other things what exactly does that mean when you annotate the Bible oh well you simply you
simply copy down all the all the verses in the Bible and you make little footnotes and and say
whatever you please about each one and if you're if you do it right the annotations are longer than
the thing you're annotating I've got a book coming out called in the beginning in which I annotate
the first 11 chapters of Genesis you can get the first 11 chapters on Genesis and maybe 15 pages or
so but the book is about 200 pages long counting my annotations um why do you think there is now uh
a real interest in in science and uh like these space movies Star Wars The Empire Strikes Back
Close Encounters oh well because the technology of the movie industry has reached the point
where they can put in spectacular special effects and people enjoy watching those special effects
did you enjoy those two movies I enjoyed Star Wars The Empire Strikes Back In fact I enjoyed
the Empire Strikes Back so much that when they finished it I jumped up my seat and yelled start
the third part they have done that haven't they they're projected like nine and I figure that at
the rate they're going they'll do the last few after I'm dead which doesn't strike me as Fair
um you know what I feel uh is unfair at the height of the manned space projects you know that was
great because everyone's attention was focused on that and I wish we had something else like that to
shoot for now do you think we uh backed away from the manned space program at the wrong time no yes
absolutely the reason for that was that we had gone into space primarily to beat the Russians so
when we got to the Moon we had and so it was true football fashion having scored the the touchdown
we went home yeah but the Russians are keeping right on going and sooner or later they'll do
something spectacular and we'll get back in the race what do you think that that would be what
spectacular thing could we look for well I suppose if they build a really large space station or they
put up their version of the shuttle and make it work while we're still fussing around with ours
then all of a sudden Congress will will pour a lot of money into it and we'll get going again yeah
um what would be the next logical step after we put a man on the moon and say we wanted
to continue putting men places where would we put our next man ah well we ought to stay here
in the Earth Moon system for a while and get it really developed we have to ought to build space
stations we have to build space settlements get some power stations in orbit build some factories
get a mining station on the moon and once we've got a real space civilization going then we can
explore further from a good strong space space if that's speaking as a science fiction writer or a
man who has studied the needs and what space can provide us no I think that's speaking as a real
human being have you ever written about things and then seen them come true occasionally yes I
described a spacewalk in 1952 and when they did it some years later it turned out to be exactly
the way I described it wasn't very difficult I described pocket computers in 1950 got the
appearance exactly right I talked about space stations getting energy Down to Earth in 1940.
and got that almost right I put the put it in Mercury's orbit instead of moon's orbit to get
it closer to the Sun maybe someday we'll do that I predicted that the opposition to the space race
and there was yeah so uh but these are little things I never tried to predict I just tried
to write stories I would sell so I could pay my way through college that whole Phenomenon with
the Phenomenon with computers and digital stuff it used to be I could pretty well figure out any
clock radio not so anymore it's all advanced to the point where you really have to sit down and
read the lousy book to figure these things out now and it seems like things are getting more and more
complex for just getting by day to day well it always happens that way things get more complex to
do more than as the technology advances further it gets simpler again until the next Quantum jump and
then it becomes complex again yeah I remember when radios first came out so you're too young for that
when radios first came out it was next to impossible to tune them uh now you just turn
them on I remember when television first came out you had to have a live-in television repairman
now you just turn it on if anything goes wrong with it it means you buy a new set yeah when when
the uh the radios did come out they were like the size of a of a Buick in some cases and now
I'm you can get them just about that big it's uh unless you want to walk down the street playing
at the top of the range then it's back to the Buick yeah that's right that's a whole different
situation here in New York City talking about among other things is prolific work as a writer
this represents 221 books published what uh what kind of Hardware do you have in
your home to keep this thing uh moving various typewriters yeah that's about all you just get
up and Wander from room to room type a little and then type a little and type a little no
there's just one typewriter and the other three just sit there in case something happens to the
one I can grab one or the other three is it possible to write more than one book at a time
well not simultaneously but I've got three different books in various stages that's
what I mean do you ever how do you keep everything straight well as long as it's non-fiction there's
no trouble you just or at least for me there's no trouble if it were fiction I'd have to work
on one book I I don't think I could manage two fiction books I'd get confused in the plots yeah
uh I want to get back to talking about your feelings about new developments in certain
areas for example uh in the next five to ten to fifteen years in medicine why it seems to me that
the important discoveries will be how to fiddle around with genes so as to perhaps correct some of
the diseases we that are congenital maybe instead of treating diabetes with insulin we can fix up
a gene so that you make your own maybe perhaps we can get rid of some other conditions like that how
would that be administered do you do you get like an inoculation at Birth or the parents get it or
how would that happen well I suppose that eventually we'll reach the stage where children
as born will have a genetic analysis and that you could then try to do something like that graft the
necessary genes into the pancreas for instance and hope that they'll do sufficient work to prevent
the eventual development of the diabetes that's a very risky area to be uh experimenting with isn't
it yes and presumably they'll do their best with animals before they try anything on human beings
you could you could alter or add to or detract from any characteristic of a human that way
couldn't you well in theory yes but you know you have to work up the technology to a high pitch
of excellence and we're just at the beginning of that now yeah uh and what what signals the
beginning what have we done so far well we've been working mostly with bacteria that's how far we are
and we've managed to engineer bacteria so to speak so that uh particular bacteria can form chemicals
that they themselves naturally wouldn't make but we insert the genes for it so that we can now
have bacteria making human insulin diabetics now take insulin obtained from domestic as slaughtered
domestic animals which is not exactly like human insulin it does the work but you could you could
get allergic to it and now we have human ensure which we can get from bacteria and have I heard
correctly about a synthetic insulin or is that what you're speaking of or well in a sense it's
synthetic in that it's manufactured as a result of human agency but it's exactly like human insulin
and the body can't tell the difference uh what about cancer research any breakthroughs there
well Heaven Only Knows we've been waiting for one for 30 years at least maybe 50 and we can
never we can never tell when it'll come but it isn't here yet um what about the weapons race
well now they keep talking about space weapons about using about using laser beams or ion beams
things like that against satellites and you'll have either killer satellites doing the job or
stations on Earth and uh as long as the satellites are unmanned I suppose it doesn't do any harm to
shoot them down but I figure that the best weapons researchers no weapons research yeah
you don't foresee that happening though I guess huh oh well I imagine that uh I imagine that in 30
years we'll have a situation in which there won't be any wars either that or there won't be any us
let's get to the matter of communications developments uh we were unable to place a
call here to Missouri on a fairly sophisticated piece of equipment
um you see any Monumental breakthroughs in the area of communications well there are Monumental
breakthroughs that are underway now in terms of communication satellites and Optical fibers
and I imagine that more and more we'll be using laser beams for communicating rather than either
electrical currents or radio waves and it will then be possible to have millions literary minions
of times as many messages carried on a on a wire or on a beam as we now can so that everyone can
possibly have their own television channel the way we all now have our own telephone numbers
and uh closed circuit television will become the great thing and everything from education to
research will be done by by way of communication communication devices the book is called enjoy
still felt which is part two of your autobiography correct right part one was in memory at Green it
had a autobiography of Isaac asthma of 1920 to 1954 with a black border made my wife very
nervous you hadn't even met me in 1954 she kept saying who's this imposter right Dr Isaac Asimov
thank you very much doctor for being with us we're going to pause for an NBC news update [Applause]
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