Title: The Fabric of Reality
Author: Deutsch, David
Published by: Allen Lane (Penguin Press)
Year: 1997
Date reviewed: 04.98
ISBN: 0-713-99061-9

Deutsch bases his theme on the concept of multiple universes, which emerges from quantum theory as a solution to some of its inherent problems. From there he extends into virtual reality, time travel, and the possibilities (and constraints) of near-infinite computing power. He draws parallels between knowledge and genetically coded information.

If all this sounds like the weirdest of science fiction, remember that this is a serious book. Deutsch has successfully aimed at an interested – but not necessarily expert – audience, but a glance at the reviews and comments on his website (see below) will show that his ideas have sparked serious academic debate. Not all his readers will agree with him, and there are other competing theories such as the "multiple minds" approach developed by Oxford philosopher Michael Lockwood which offer alternative solutions to some of the problems with quantum theory.

I am glad to have read this book (and to have heard Deutsch present his arguments to an informed audience). You can read about him and his other interests, which include child development and education, on his website here