Who is James Gleick and what is his primary area of expertise?

James Gleick is an American author and historian of science, born on August 1, 1954. His work focuses on chronicling the cultural impact of modern technology, and he is recognized for his ability to explain complex subjects using narrative nonfiction techniques.

What is James Gleick's reputation in the field of science writing?

James Gleick is highly regarded in his field, having been described as "one of the great science writers of all time." His writing is noted for combining clear explanations of complex theories with compelling historical narratives and insights into the lives of scientists.

Which fictional character was partly inspired by James Gleick?

James Gleick served as part of the inspiration for the character Ian Malcolm in the *Jurassic Park* franchise. Ian Malcolm is a mathematician known for applying chaos theory principles to real-world events.

What are two of James Gleick's most well-known international bestselling books?

Two of James Gleick's prominent international bestsellers are *Chaos: Making a New Science*, published in 1987, and *The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood*, published in 2011. These books explore complex scientific and technological concepts.

How many of James Gleick's books have been finalists for major literary awards?

Three of James Gleick's books have been finalists for both the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award. This indicates significant critical recognition for his literary and scientific contributions.

Which specific awards did 'The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood' receive?

In 2012, *The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood* received the PEN/E. O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award and the Royal Society Winton Prize for Science Books. These awards highlight the book's excellence in science communication and writing.

In how many languages have James Gleick's books been translated?

James Gleick's books have been translated into more than thirty languages, demonstrating their global reach and appeal to diverse international audiences.

What is the assessment of James Gleick's writing skills by The Wall Street Journal?

The Wall Street Journal has praised James Gleick, stating that he is a master of crafting historical narratives, elucidating esoteric theories, and humanizing scientists. This suggests a versatile and comprehensive approach to his writing.

Where was James Gleick born, and what is his educational background?

James Gleick was born in New York City. He attended Harvard College, where he was an editor for *The Harvard Crimson*, and graduated in 1976 with an A.B. degree in English and linguistics.

What was James Gleick's first significant role in journalism after college?

After graduating from Harvard, James Gleick moved to Minneapolis and co-founded an alternative weekly newspaper called *Metropolis*. Following its closure, he returned to New York.

Describe James Gleick's tenure at The New York Times.

James Gleick joined The New York Times in 1979 and worked there for ten years. Initially, he served as an editor on the metropolitan desk before transitioning to become a science reporter. During his time there, he profiled notable scientists and his reporting on Microsoft anticipated future antitrust investigations.

What was the subject of James Gleick's "Fast Forward" column?

James Gleick wrote the "Fast Forward" column in the *New York Times Magazine* from 1995 to 1999. His essays in this column explored the growth and implications of the Internet, forming the basis for his book *What Just Happened*.

Besides The New York Times, where else has James Gleick's work been published?

James Gleick's essays and articles have also appeared in prominent publications such as *The New Yorker*, *The Atlantic*, *Slate*, and *The Washington Post*. He is also a regular contributor to *The New York Review of Books*.

What impact did James Gleick's book 'Chaos: Making a New Science' have on popular science?

James Gleick's 1987 book *Chaos: Making a New Science* brought the concepts of chaos theory and complexity to a wider audience. It popularized terms like the 'butterfly effect' and introduced concepts such as the Mandelbrot set and fractal geometry to the public consciousness.

Which notable writers and works were influenced by 'Chaos: Making a New Science'?

James Gleick's *Chaos: Making a New Science* influenced writers like Tom Stoppard, who incorporated its themes into his play *Arcadia*, and Michael Crichton, who drew inspiration for his novel *Jurassic Park*. This demonstrates the book's broad cultural impact beyond scientific circles.

What projects did James Gleick undertake following the publication of 'Chaos: Making a New Science'?

After publishing *Chaos*, James Gleick collaborated with photographer Eliot Porter on the book *Nature's Chaos*. He also worked with developers at Autodesk on a software project titled *Chaos: The Software*. Subsequently, he authored biographies on Richard Feynman and Isaac Newton.

How has James Gleick's writing style been characterized?

James Gleick's writing style has been described as a combination of a "clear mind, magpie-styled research and explanatory verve." This suggests a meticulous approach to research coupled with an engaging and accessible writing voice.

What academic role did James Gleick hold at Princeton University?

From 1989 to 1990, James Gleick served as the McGraw Distinguished Lecturer at Princeton University. This role involved teaching or lecturing, likely focusing on his areas of expertise in science and technology.

What significant editorial role did James Gleick fulfill in 2000?

In 2000, James Gleick was the first editor of the anthology series *The Best American Science Writing*. This role involved selecting and curating outstanding science writing from the year.

When was James Gleick elected president of The Authors Guild, and what is this organization?

James Gleick was elected president of The Authors Guild in 2017. The Authors Guild is a professional organization for American writers, advocating for their rights and interests.

What motivated James Gleick to found 'The Pipeline'?

James Gleick founded 'The Pipeline' in 1993 as a reaction to his negative user experience with the email configuration software 'procmail' at the internet service provider Panix. He aimed to create a better online experience.

What was the significance of 'The Pipeline' in the early internet era?

'The Pipeline' was one of the earliest Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in New York City. It was notable for being the first ISP to offer a graphical user interface (GUI) that integrated email, chat, Usenet, and the World Wide Web for both Windows and Mac operating systems.

What happened to 'The Pipeline' company?

James Gleick sold 'The Pipeline' to PSINet in 1995. Subsequently, the company was absorbed into other internet service providers, MindSpring and later EarthLink.

Describe the aircraft accident involving James Gleick.

On December 20, 1997, James Gleick was piloting his Rutan Long-EZ experimental aircraft when ice build-up in the engine's carburetor caused a loss of power during landing approach at Greenwood Lake Airport in New Jersey. The plane crashed short of the runway.

What were the tragic consequences of the 1997 aircraft accident?

The aircraft accident resulted in the death of James Gleick's eight-year-old son, Harry. James Gleick himself sustained serious injuries in the crash.

What is the subject matter of James Gleick's book 'Chaos: Making a New Science'?

James Gleick's book *Chaos: Making a New Science*, published in 1987, explores the development of chaos theory and complexity science. It delves into the mathematical and scientific principles that describe unpredictable systems.

What is the subject of James Gleick's biography 'Genius: The Life and Science of Richard Feynman'?

Published in 1992, *Genius: The Life and Science of Richard Feynman* is a biography of the renowned theoretical physicist Richard Feynman. The book examines his life, scientific contributions, and personality.

What topic does James Gleick's 1999 book 'Faster' address?

James Gleick's 1999 book, *Faster: The Acceleration of Just About Everything*, examines the increasing speed of various aspects of modern life and technology. It explores how acceleration impacts society and human experience.

What is the focus of James Gleick's 2002 book, 'What Just Happened'?

James Gleick's 2002 book, *What Just Happened: A Chronicle from the Electronic Frontier*, is based on his essays charting the growth of the Internet. It reflects on the early days and cultural impact of the digital age.

What historical figure is the subject of James Gleick's 2003 biography?

James Gleick's 2003 biography is about the influential English mathematician, physicist, and astronomer Isaac Newton. The book, *Isaac Newton*, explores the life and scientific achievements of this pivotal figure in science history.

What is the central theme of James Gleick's 2011 book, 'The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood'?

*The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood*, published in 2011, delves into the history and evolution of information itself. It covers concepts from the earliest forms of communication to modern digital information theory.

What subject does James Gleick explore in his 2016 book, 'Time Travel: A History'?

In his 2016 book, *Time Travel: A History*, James Gleick examines the concept of time travel as it has been explored in history, science, and culture. The book traces the idea from its origins to its modern interpretations.

What recent topics has James Gleick written about in 'The New York Review of Books'?

In recent articles for *The New York Review of Books*, James Gleick has reviewed works on topics such as free will and artificial intelligence ('The Fate of Free Will', July 2025), futurology and prediction ('The Prophet Business', February 2025), and the implications of AI ('The Parrot in the Machine', July 2025). These reviews engage with contemporary scientific and philosophical debates.

What is the purpose of the 'Authority control' section in the Wikipedia article?

The 'Authority control' section provides links to various international and national databases that catalog information about James Gleick. These identifiers, such as ISNI, VIAF, and GND, help to uniquely identify him and distinguish him from others with similar names, ensuring consistency in cataloging his works and biographical information across different library and archival systems.

What does the image caption 'Gleick in 2016' refer to?

The image caption 'Gleick in 2016' refers to a photograph of James Gleick taken in that year. This visual representation helps readers identify him and provides a contemporary image of the author.

What is the significance of the audio file linked in the 'External Links' section?

The audio file linked in the 'External Links' section features James Gleick discussing his book *The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood* on Bookbits radio. This provides an auditory resource for listeners interested in his work and the themes of the book.

What does the Wikiquote link indicate?

The Wikiquote link indicates that there is a collection of quotations attributed to James Gleick available on the Wikiquote platform. This resource allows users to explore his notable sayings and insights.

What is the 'Alma mater' listed for James Gleick?

James Gleick's 'Alma mater' is listed as Harvard University. This signifies the institution where he completed his higher education.

Who is Peter Gleick, and what is his relationship to James Gleick?

Peter Gleick is identified as the brother of James Gleick. While the article doesn't detail Peter's profession, it notes him as a relative.

What does the website 'around.com' represent in relation to James Gleick?

The website 'around.com' is listed as James Gleick's official website. It serves as a central online hub for information about him and his work, often including selections of his writings.

James Gleick Wiki: Decoding Complexity: The Literary Universe of James Gleick

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The Scholar's Journey

Early Life and Education

Born in New York City on August 1, 1954, James Gleick pursued higher education at Harvard University. During his tenure there, he served as an editor for The Harvard Crimson, graduating in 1976 with a degree in English and Linguistics. This academic foundation provided him with the analytical and linguistic tools essential for his future work.

Foundation of a Career

Following his studies, Gleick moved to Minneapolis to co-found Metropolis, an alternative weekly newspaper. After its brief existence, he returned to New York City in 1979 to join The New York Times. Over a decade, he progressed from an editor on the metropolitan desk to a science reporter, profiling prominent scientists and anticipating significant technological and legal developments.

Pioneering the Digital Frontier

In 1993, Gleick established The Pipeline, one of New York City's earliest Internet service providers. This venture was motivated by his experiences with early email systems. The Pipeline distinguished itself by offering the first graphical user interface for internet access, integrating email, chat, Usenet, and the World Wide Web for Windows and Mac users. He later sold The Pipeline to PSINet in 1995.

Crafting Narratives of Science

Illuminating Complex Concepts

Gleick is renowned for his ability to translate intricate scientific and technological subjects into compelling narrative nonfiction. His work delves into the cultural implications of modern scientific thought and technological advancements, earning him accolades such as being called "one of the great science writers of all time."

The Impact of "Chaos"

His seminal work, Chaos: Making a New Science (1987), introduced the concept of chaos theory and the butterfly effect to a wide audience. This book significantly influenced popular culture and scientific discourse, inspiring works like Tom Stoppard's play Arcadia and Michael Crichton's novel Jurassic Park. It also sparked interest in fractal geometry.

Exploring Information and Beyond

Gleick's other notable books include the biography Genius: The Life and Science of Richard Feynman and The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood (2011), which explores the evolution of information itself. His writing has been praised for its clarity, meticulous research, and explanatory prowess, making him a master storyteller of scientific progress.

The Pipeline: A Digital Pioneer

Genesis of an ISP

Frustrated with the limitations of early email systems like Procmail, Gleick founded The Pipeline in 1993. This initiative aimed to provide a more user-friendly and integrated online experience, positioning it as one of the first Internet Service Providers in New York City.

Graphical Interface Innovation

The Pipeline's key innovation was its proprietary software, which offered a graphical user interface (GUI) for accessing email, Usenet, the World Wide Web, and chat services. This approach democratized internet access, making it more intuitive for users accustomed to graphical operating systems on Windows and Mac.

Business Evolution

Gleick and his business partner licensed the Pipeline software to other ISPs. In 1995, the company was acquired by PSINet, marking a significant milestone in its journey. The service was later integrated into MindSpring and subsequently EarthLink, reflecting the rapid consolidation and growth of the internet service industry.

Selected Bibliography

Major Publications

James Gleick's literary contributions span seminal works on science, technology, and biography. His books have achieved international acclaim, translated into numerous languages and recognized with prestigious awards.

Title	Year	ISBN	Publisher	Subject Matter	Interviews/Presentations	Comments
Chaos: Making a New Science	1987	9780670811786	Viking Penguin	Chaos theory		Revised edition 2008 (ISBN 9780143113454)
Nature's Chaos	1989	9780316609425	Viking Penguin			Written with Eliot Porter.
Genius: The Life and Science of Richard Feynman	1992	9780679747048	Pantheon Books	Richard Feynman		Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award finalist.
Faster: The Acceleration of Just About Everything	1999	9780679775485	Pantheon Books		Presentation on C-SPAN (Jan 13, 2001)
The Best American Science Writing 2000	2000	9780060957360	HarperCollins		Panel discussion on C-SPAN (Oct 4, 2000)	Editor
What Just Happened: A Chronicle from the Electronic Frontier	2002	9780375713910	Pantheon Books		Presentation on C-SPAN (Aug 21, 2002)
Isaac Newton	2003	9781400032952	Pantheon Books	Isaac Newton	Presentation on C-SPAN (June 12, 2003)	Pulitzer Prize finalist.
The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood	2011	9780375423727	Pantheon Books	History of information	After Words interview on C-SPAN (June 18, 2011)	PEN/E. O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award, Royal Society Winton Prize. Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award finalist.
Time Travel: A History	2016	9780307908797	Pantheon Books	Time travel	Presentations on C-SPAN (Oct 15, 2016; Nov 19, 2016)	Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award finalist.

Selected Articles and Reviews

Contemporary Commentary

Gleick continues to contribute insightful reviews and articles to prominent publications, engaging with current scientific and philosophical discourse. His commentary often bridges academic concepts with broader societal implications.

Review of Free Agents: How Evolution Gave Us Free Will by Kevin J. Mitchell (2024). In The New York Review of Books, Gleick discusses agency, reason, and the distinction between biological intelligence and artificial intelligence.
Review of A Century of Tomorrows: How Imagining the Future Shapes the Present by Glenn Adamson (2025). Published in The New York Review of Books, this review examines futurology and the nature of prediction, referencing Wikipedia's "Timeline of the Far Future."
"The Parrot in the Machine" (2025). A review in The New York Review of Books covering Emily M. Bender and Alex Hanna's The AI Con and James Boyle's The Line: AI and the Future of Personhood, critically assessing AI hype and its implications.

Further Exploration

Online Presence and Resources

James Gleick maintains an active online presence, offering insights into his work and engaging with readers. Several platforms provide access to his writings, interviews, and discussions.

Official Website: around.com - Features selections of his work and biographical information.
The New York Review of Books: Author Page - Access to his published reviews and essays.
Wikiquote: Quotations - A collection of notable quotes attributed to James Gleick.
C-SPAN Appearances: Video Archive - Recordings of interviews and presentations.
Mastodon Profile: @JamesGleick - Social media presence.
Audio Archive: Bookbits Radio Interview - Discussion on The Information.

Authority Control

Identifiers and Databases

This section provides links to various international and national databases that catalog information about James Gleick, facilitating academic and archival research.

Authority Control Databases
International	ISNI VIAF GND FAST WorldCat
National	United States France BnF data Japan Australia Czech Republic Spain Portugal Netherlands Norway Latvia Croatia Chile Greece Korea Poland Israel Catalonia Belgium
Academics	CiNii zbMATH
Artists	MusicBrainz
People	Trove DDB
Other	IdRef SNAC Yale LUX

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the James Gleick Wikipedia page

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This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and has been refined for clarity and depth. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, it may not be entirely comprehensive or up-to-date.

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James Gleick: A Literary Cartographer of Science and Technology

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Scholar's Journey 🎓

🏙️ Early Life and Education

📰 Foundation of a Career

🌐 Pioneering the Digital Frontier

Crafting Narratives of Science ✍️

💡 Illuminating Complex Concepts

📈 The Impact of "Chaos"

🗣️ Exploring Information and Beyond

The Pipeline: A Digital Pioneer 💻

🚀 Genesis of an ISP

🖼️ Graphical Interface Innovation

🤝 Business Evolution

Selected Bibliography 📖

📚 Major Publications

Selected Articles and Reviews 📝

🔍 Contemporary Commentary

Further Exploration 🔗

🌐 Online Presence and Resources

Authority Control 🆔

🔗 Identifiers and Databases

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Scholar's Journey

Early Life and Education

Foundation of a Career

Pioneering the Digital Frontier

Crafting Narratives of Science

Illuminating Complex Concepts

The Impact of "Chaos"

Exploring Information and Beyond

The Pipeline: A Digital Pioneer

Genesis of an ISP

Graphical Interface Innovation

Business Evolution

Selected Bibliography

Major Publications

Selected Articles and Reviews

Contemporary Commentary

Further Exploration

Online Presence and Resources

Authority Control

Identifiers and Databases

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice